7 Healthcast: Quitting smoking

Many people see the New Year as a good time to try kick their nicotine habit.

Dr. Jonathan Winickoff, MassGeneral Hospital
"This is exactly the right time to quit smoking."

Dr. Jonathan Winickoff of MassGeneral Hospital-West is spearheading a new program called "cease tobacco." The program is designed to offer lots and lots of support for the smoker trying to quit.

Candy Chapman of Waltham is hoping to end her addiction to cigarettes.

Candy Chapman, quitting smoking
"I've smoked a pack a day for pretty much 35 years"

Candy, like many people, has tried to quit before.

Candy Chapman, quitting smoking
"The longest I ever quit was for three months."

The "cease tobacco" program offers one on one counseling, and helps smokers find the right method to quit.

Candy Chapman, quitting smoking
"I'm doing the patches with gum, so hopefully this will work."

Dr. Winickoff says support really is the key to success.

Dr. Jonathan Winickoff, MassGeneral Hospital
"Make sure you tell friends and loved ones about your plan to quit smoking. That can help make it more real and help increase your motivation to be successful."

The program also stresses the importance of setting goals and rewarding yourself.

Candy Chapman, quitting smoking
"I'm going to get myself a big piece of jewelry after the year is over."

Dr. Winickoff says the first step is to set a quit date. If you require medication to help you quit, be sure to check with your health insurance provider, to see if it's covered.

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