Quitting tobacco is one of the most important steps you can take for your health—and it’s never too late to start. Whether you smoke cigarettes, use e-cigarettes, or chew tobacco, each day without tobacco lowers your risk of serious diseases and helps your body begin to heal.
Why Quitting Matters
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. It is linked to lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and many other health problems. But the benefits of quitting start almost immediately:
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20 minutes after quitting – Heart rate and blood pressure drop.
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12 hours after quitting – Carbon monoxide levels in the blood return to normal.
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2–12 weeks after quitting – Circulation improves and lung function increases.
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1 year after quitting – The risk of heart disease is cut in half compared to a tobacco user.
Every step you take toward quitting makes a real difference for your health and your future.
Common Challenges—and How to Overcome Them
Quitting tobacco isn’t easy. Nicotine is highly addictive, and cravings can be strong. Many people try several times before quitting for good. But each attempt is progress. Some helpful strategies include:
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Set a quit date – Choose a day soon and mark it on your calendar.
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Find your triggers – Notice when you crave tobacco (stress, social situations, coffee breaks) and plan healthier alternatives.
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Seek support – Talk with family, friends, or join a support group. Having encouragement can make all the difference.
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Consider medications or nicotine replacement – Options like patches, lozenges, or prescribed medications can ease withdrawal symptoms.
How We Can Help
At Celebrating Life Community Health Center, we care about your whole-person health. Our providers can:
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Talk with you about your quit plan and personal health goals.
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Recommend safe and effective medications or nicotine replacement therapy.
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Connect you with counseling and resources to stay on track.
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Support you every step of the way, without judgment.
Free Resources Available to You
You don’t have to do this alone. In addition to our services, you can call the free California Smokers’ Helpline at 1-800-NO-BUTTS for counseling and support in multiple languages.
Ready to Quit?
If you’re thinking about quitting—or even just curious about your options—we’re here to help. Talk with your CLCHC provider at your next visit, give us a call at 949-866-3600, or book an appointment online to get started.
A tobacco-free future is possible—and it starts with one step.
