In October, Sylvan Grove Hospital will begin offering the American Cancer Society’s FreshStart Smoking Cessation Program free to the community as a resource for those who want to quit. The class will be offered on a regular basis and based on the need of the community.

The program, which consists of four one-hour sessions within a two-week period, helps smokers quit and develop coping skills to stay stopped. Led by a trained facilitator, the group sessions address a variety of reasons why people smoke, and give participants tools to overcome obstacles and stay quit forever.

Session one of the first class will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 18 at Sylvan Grove Hospital. The remaining sessions for that class will be held on October 23, 25 and 30. Space is limited. People who are interested are encouraged to register early. To register, call (770) 775-7861, extension 266.

Regardless of how long someone has smoked, quitting smoking can decrease their risk of smoking-related diseases and improve their health. Smoking and tobacco use are linked to cancer, lung disease, heart disease, stroke, emphysema and more.

For the health of its patients, visitors, employees, physicians and volunteers, Sylvan Grove Hospital will have tobacco-free buildings and grounds beginning November 1, 2007.