Smoking Cessation

Quit Smoking

Smoking Cessation

Are you ready to make a change for yourself and the people you care about most? Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) is here to help! 

We have a smoking cessation program, at no cost to you, that gives customized support from a registered nurse who will help create a personalized quit plan.

Benefits of Quitting

In just a short time, your body can get big rewards from not smoking:

  • Minutes – heart rate drops
  • 24 hours – nicotine level in the blood drops to zero
  • Several days – carbon monoxide level in the blood drops to the level of someone who does not smoke
  • 1 to 12 months – coughing and shortness of breath decrease
  • 1 to 2 years – risk of heart attack drops sharply
  • 3 to 6 years – added risk of coronary heart disease drops by half
  • 5 to 10 years – added risk of cancers of the mouth, throat and voice box drops by half; risk of stroke decreases
  • 10 years – added risk of lung cancer drops by after 10 – 15 years; risk of cancers of the bladder, esophagus and kidney decreases
  • 15 years – risk of coronary heart disease drops close to that of someone who does not smoke
  • 20 years – risk of cancers of the mouth, throat and voice box drops close to that of someone who does not smoke; risk of pancreatic cancer drops close to that of someone who does not smoke; added risk of cervical cancer drops by about half

Source: CDC.gov

Nurse-supported smoking cessation program

It’s harder than most people think to quit smoking, plus there’s not one right way for everyone.

We’re here to help! BCBSNE has developed a FREE smoking cessation program that can be accessed through a mobile app.

Our program is unique as we take a holistic approach to your health and wellbeing. Through the mobile app, you will be connected to a nurse health coach that will personalize a quit plan that meets all your goals.

With this program, you can:

  • Gain clear understanding of cessation benefits provided by your health plan
  • Understand your smoking triggers and receive continuous support to keep you on track
  • Connect with a nurse about any health and wellness challenges such as managing stress and weight, starting an exercise program or getting help with chronic conditions
  • Get educational content that will help you make informed choices

Get started today

Download the Wellframe app and enter your member ID when prompted (access code NEQUIT will be prepopulated)

Download App

Apple App Store  Google Play Store

Additional Resources

Is vaping better than smoking?

E-cigarettes are not currently approved by the FDA as a quit-smoking aid. The e-cigarette aerosol contains harmful substances, including nicotine, diacetyl, a chemical linked to serious lung disease, volatile organic compounds, cancer-causing chemicals and heavy metals such as nickel, tin, and lead. (source: CDC.gov)

For more information on smoking cessation and vaping, visit these resources:

Get prepared – talk to your doctor

All of us can use a helping hand from time to time. That's especially true when you are trying to quit smoking. It's a daunting task. Nicotine withdrawal is different for every smoker. But over time, your cravings will fade as long as you stay smoke-free. The first week is hard, but medications and other tools can help you manage withdrawal. Almost all smokers can use nicotine replacement therapy safely. Before trying any medications, talk to your primary care doctor.

Nicotine replacement therapy may double your chances of quitting for good. It reduces withdrawal feelings by giving you a small, controlled amount of nicotine with none of the other dangerous chemicals found in cigarettes. This small amount of nicotine helps satisfy your craving for nicotine and reduces the urge to smoke. Nicotine replacement therapy comes in many forms. You can choose the one that works best for you. 

  • A gum that releases nicotine when you chew it.
  • A patch that delivers a small and steady amount of nicotine throughout the day.
  • A hard candy that contains nicotine.

There are also medications you can use to help. You will need to talk with your doctor and decide what's best for you. You need a prescription to get these medications. 

  • Nasal spray
  • An inhaler
  • Bupropion SR/Wellbutrin
    • Bupropion SR contains no nicotine. It may help with withdrawal and reduce the urge to smoke. Side effects can include dry mouth and not being able to sleep. Most people take it for at least 3 to 6 months after quitting.
  • Varenicline/Chantix
    • Varenicline is a drug that may help you quit by easing withdrawal symptoms. It contains no nicotine, and can block the effects of nicotine from cigarettes if you start smoking again. Side effects can include life-like dreams and stomach issues, like nausea. There have been rare reports of mood swings, depression, and suicidal thoughts. If you experience these side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Most people take Wellbutrin or Chantix for 3 to 6 months after quitting.

Wellframe is an independent company that provides mobile-enabled care management services for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska.

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