Mosaic to offer free online program to help community members who want to quit smoking

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Mosaic Life Care announced the beginning of a free online program aimed at helping community members who want to quit smoking.

Community members can receive free support, education and encouragement through the six-week smoking cessation program beginning Sept. 30.

The program is offered through the American Lung Association and meets once a week for an hour online through Microsoft Teams and is designed to help participants prepare for and maintain a tobacco-free lifestyle.

"Many people think they need to quit smoking before they join the program, but that's not the case," said Maddie Merill, a UMKC medical student. "Quitting is a journey. The classes help participants prepare for that journey, provide practical tools and create a supportive community that encourages long-term success."

According to Dr. Jane Schwabe, MD, cardiothoracic surgeon at Mosaic Life Care and medical director of the Lung Screening Program, smoking cessation provides significant health benefits.

"The benefit people often think about first is lung health and reducing their risk of lung cancer, but quitting smoking positively affects nearly every organ in the body," said Dr. Schwabe. "It lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, peripheral vascular disease and many other serious health conditions."

According to a news release, smoking cessation can also have a positive impact on families and the community by reducing healthcare costs and improving overall quality of life.

Program leaders also emphasize the value of connecting participants with others who are working toward the same goal.

"One of the best things about the program is that participants find support from people facing similar challenges," said Schwabe. "Like any lifestyle change, having people who can encourage you through difficult days can make a real difference."

To register or learn more, email Maddie Merill at mmerrill@umkc.edu.