Tobacco Cessation
Tools and resources to help you quit tobacco.
Quitting is hard, we’re here to help
In the U.S., tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability and death. But we get it: quitting can be a challenge. That’s because tobacco products like cigarettes, vape pens and smokeless tobacco contain nicotine, a highly addictive chemical. Even if you’ve tried quitting before, it’s never too late. We’re here to help by offering the right programs and tips so you can start living a healthier life.
Why quit?
You’re never too old to quit smoking, vaping or using tobacco products.
The risks of tobacco use
You probably already know the risks—there are at least 250 known harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke, and at least 69 can cause cancer according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Smoking also causes:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Health benefits of quitting tobacco
- 3 days: nicotine has left your body
- 1 year: risk of coronary heart disease cuts in half
- 2-5 years: risk of mouth, throat, esophagus and bladder cancer cuts in half; risk of stroke reduces to that of a non-tobacco user
- 10 years: half as likely to die from lung cancer; risk of kidney or pancreatic cancer decreases
- 15 years: risk of coronary heart disease drops to a non-tobacco user's
Quit with Blue
There’s no time like today to take the first step. If you’re ready to quit, follow this to-do list to create an action plan that works for you.
Visit your physician
Talk to your doctor about medications that can help you quit smoking, vaping and using tobacco as well as local programs and resources that can provide support.
Get free tobacco cessation drugs
You may be eligible to receive certain smoking and tobacco cessation medications at no charge to you through the Tobacco Cessation Incentive Program.
Learn about your medical benefits
Smoking and tobacco cessation coverage extends beyond prescription medications. Your benefits also include educational classes and programs that can provide the tools and support you need on your path to becoming tobacco-free.
Helpful Resources
Be Tobacco Free
BeTobaccoFree.gov provides access to U.S. government information on tobacco-related topics.
Smokefree.gov
Smokefree.gov can help support your immediate and long-term needs as you become and remain tobacco-free.
American Lung Association
The American Lung Association provides smoking cessation programs and a variety of options to help you quit for good.
Get the tools to quit plus free tobacco cessation drugs
Service Benefit Plan members can get the tools and resources to quit for good with the Tobacco Cessation Incentive Program. This program provides you with tobacco cessation drugs at no cost. It also covers nicotine dependencies from e-cigarettes.
Learn More
