Leon Tulton, the Smoking Cessation Coordinator for the East and Central Harlem District Health Office, talks about local resources that can help you quit smoking.

Q. Are the nicotine patch and gum the best ways to help people quit?

A: In comparison to quitting "cold turkey," the nicotine patch and gum double your chances of successfully quitting smoking. They provide a very low level of nicotine to help your body gradually become less addicted to nicotine. Some people who have tried to quit smoking "cold turkey" in the past may have quit for a couple of days then had a cigarette and gave up. These products can help people avoid these situations.

Q. Does the DOH provide other services to Harlem residents besides the patch and gum, such as quit smoking counseling?

A: Although right now we don't provide counseling, with the exception of instructing people on how to use the nicotine gum and patches in our 101 Counseling sessions, we do have information about other places where people could go for these services. For example, we can provide you with places you can go for smoking cessations support groups right here in the local Harlem area. We can also direct you to the New York State Quitline, who can connect you to other resources in the community.

Q. And are some of these resources free or low-cost?

A: Many of the resources are FREE! Again, I have to emphasize: free, free, free!!!! There are a few places that may charge you, but it is a very low cost.

Harlem Word is a series of interviews with community health experts written by HHPC and reviewed by our Health Advisory Board.