Smoking Cessation
Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your health. At Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC), we understand how difficult it can be to stop. Whether you are making your first attempt or trying again, we are here to provide education, tools and resources to support your journey toward a smoke-free life.
Why Quit Smoking
Smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. It damages nearly every organ in the body and increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease and stroke.
According to The American Cancer Society, the benefits of quitting begin almost immediately and continue to grow over time:
- Within minutes to hours: Heart rate and blood pressure begin to normalize.
- Within days to weeks: Breathing improves and senses of taste and smell return.
- Within months to years: The risk of serious illness such as heart disease, stroke and cancer continues to drop.
Even if you have smoked for years, quitting can improve your health and add years to your life.
How to Quit
There is no single “right” way to quit smoking, but many people succeed by combining strategies.
- Set a quit date. Pick a day in the near future and prepare for it.
- Identify triggers. Pay attention to situations, feelings or habits that make you want to smoke.
- Clear your environment. Get rid of cigarettes, ashtrays and lighters.
- Seek support. Talk to family, friends or join a counseling group.
- Use quit aids. Nicotine replacement products or prescription medications may help reduce cravings.
- Plan for cravings. Try deep breathing, drink water or distract yourself with an activity.
- Keep trying. Many people make several attempts before they quit for good. Each effort brings you closer to success.
Lung Health at PVHMC
Lung Cancer CT Screening
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Because symptoms rarely appear until the disease is advanced, most cases are diagnosed late—when treatment is less effective.
The good news: a quick, 15-minute, low-dose CT scan can find lung cancer earlier, when it’s easier to treat, and could save your life.
Who should get a lung cancer CT screening?
You may be eligible if you meet all of the following:
- Age 50 to 80
- Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years
- Have a smoking history of 20 pack-years or more (number of packs smoked per day × years smoked)
Example: Smoking one pack a day for 20 years equals 20 pack-years.
Next steps:
- Talk to your doctor about your risk and eligibility.
- If you don’t have a doctor, call our Physician Referral team at 909.865.9858 or visit mypvhc.com.
- Most insurance providers cover the cost of screening for eligible patients. If you don’t meet the criteria, ask about our low-cost, self-pay option.
Learn more about our Lung CT Screening Program
Lung Cancer Care
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with lung cancer, PVHMC provides advanced treatment through a dedicated, multidisciplinary team.
Learn more about Lung Cancer Care at PVHMC
For more information, call the Lung Cancer Program Coordinator at 909.865.9903.
Video Resources
PVHMC offers free online wellness videos that cover topics such as why to quit, how to manage cravings and tips for living smoke-free.
Watch smoking cessation videos
Resources
Additional help is available through national and community organizations:
American Cancer Society
800-227-2345
American Lung Association of California
714-835-5864
California Smokers’ Helpline
- English: 800-NO-BUTTS
- Spanish: 800-45-NO-FUME
- TDD: 800-933-4833
- Korean: 800-556-5564
- Chew: 800-844-2434
- Vietnamese: 800-778-8440
- Chinese: 800-838-8917
Nicotine Anonymous
800-642-0666
www.nicotine-anonymous.org
Smokenders, Inc.
800-828-4357
www.smokenders.com
For more information, please call the Lung Cancer Program Coordinator at 909.865.9903.
