Quit Smoking Program offers hope for addiction

The American Cancer Society will celebrate its 22nd Great American Smokeout on Nov. 19. Millions of Americans will give up cigarettes for the day. If you can quit for one day, you're that much closer to quitting for good.

According to the American Cancer Society's web site, you can maximize your chances of staying smoke-free for good by making a “Commit to Quit” plan.

The plan has three phases: deciding to quit, preparing to quit, and following through. To move from one step to the next requires careful thought and preparation.

The MUSC Center for Drug and Alcohol Programs (CDAP) offers a highly successful Smoking Cessation Program that can help you with your Commit to Quit plan.

The program combines the prescription medication Zyban and behavior therapy. The medication reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings to smoke. Behavioral management strategies are taught for overcoming the difficulties in quitting smoking.

The program director is David Drobes, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, and the medical director is Robert Malcolm, M.D., a physician. The next group starts on Monday, Dec. 7 and will meet for six sessions over a three-week period. Follow-up and additional help is available. Initial screening appointments for this group will be held the week of Nov. 23.

For additional information about the program, or to register, call (843) 792-5200.