Tobacco use is the number one cause of preventable disease and death in the United States, according to the Survey Research Group. But University of Memphis students now have one less reason to continue this statistic.
The National Institute of Health granted the Center for Community Health $2 million to conduct the Stop Smoking Cessation program, a study focusing on a healthy lifestyle while undergoing the formidable quitting process.
"This is something really great for The University of Memphis," said Janet Murphree, recruitment chair. "Students can get all the support they need to help quit smoking -- free," she said.
Over the next four years, the program is looking for 400 students, ages 18-65, to participate in the study for a minimum of one year.
The two-part program will randomly place participants in either one division focusing on the physical aspect of quitting, or another focusing on the mental aspect of quitting. Both divisions will monitor quitting rates and relapses, among other outcomes through the year.
Participants in both will receive six weeks worth of free nicotine patches and behavioral counseling.
Students placed in the physical side of the program will receive a free membership to the YMCA. There, they will work one on one with a personal trainer to develop an individual exercise program to aid with stress and potential relapses.
Those assigned to the mental side will meet with a health instructor to develop a personal wellness plan, focusing on nutrition and stress to help with emotional, mental and spiritual areas of improvement.
Kim Wall, a 21-year-old junior and five-year smoker, was excited about the program.
"I haven't been able to quit because I don't have the motivation to," she said. "There never has really been any continuous support available for me."
Participants must first undergo initial screenings, including a health test at the University of Tennessee Medical School. This may seem a little daunting to some, but project coordinator, Mary Reed, said not to worry.
"The program is a big commitment, and starts out a little heavy, but eventually the process thins out, starting with weekly consultations to eventual monthly meetings with instructors and phone calls," she said.
Wall does not mind the commitment.
"I'm just amazed all of this is free," she said.
Students interested in the program can contact the recruitment office at the Center for Community Health at 678-1672.
"Hopefully, we can reach students at a young age before serious problems develop," Murphree said. "We could really make a huge difference in their lives."
