UAMS Program Helps Arkansans Quit Using Tobacco

Arkansans who want to stop using tobacco can get intensive treatment at no cost through the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Public Health, the UAMS Area Health Education Centers and affiliated hospitals.

Tobacco users who take advantage of professional help and treatment programs have a much better chance of quitting, according to Christine Sheffer, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Health Behavior and Health Education in the College of Public Health.

"We know that quitting tobacco isn’t easy," said Sheffer, who as principle investigator sets up and leads the tobacco cessation programs. "It takes practice. And sometimes it takes intensive treatment and customized treatment plans for different people."

People who participate in treatment will be given the option to consent to provide their information for research into how this type of program is working in Arkansas. 

The treatment methods used by the UAMS tobacco intervention clinics are supported by research. Full-time, trained tobacco specialists work with tobacco users to increase their chances of quitting and staying tobacco free by applying basic strategies to their lives.

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SOSQuitline Counselor Merrie Vannucci (left) discusses procedure with Christine Sheffer, Ph.D., SOSQuitline director

Recovery Room Group Supports Parents Following Loss of a Baby

Parents throughout Arkansas who have experienced the loss of a child through miscarriage, stillbirth or newborn death can turn to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) for support.

The Recovery Room parent support group meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Monday of each month. Meetings take place on the fifth floor of the Shorey Building adjacent to the UAMS Medical Center. Parking is available at no charge on the deck off Markham Street.

People also may participate in the support group through interactive video conferencing at 10 cities across the state: Crossett, Lake Village, West Memphis, Monticello, Helena, Mena, Camden, Stuttgart, Hope and Fort Smith. With video technology, participants at each location can ask questions and share in the discussion led by Joseph Banken, Ph.D., assistant professor in the UAMS Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. For information, call (866) 273-3835 or visit www.uams.edu/angels/support_group.

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