In response to the high smoking rates in Cleveland, where an estimated 35% of adults smoke, a leading cause of cancer and heart disease, the Cleveland Department of Public Health is preparing to launch tobacco cessation classes for residents who wish to quit smoking. This initiative comes as a result of a gap in programs for individuals who are not connected to the city’s health systems and in need of support.
Katrese Minor, the director of community initiatives at the health department, explained that the goal of the community tobacco cessation program is to reach residents who are not connected to hospitals and health systems. To address this gap, health department employees and Cleveland hospital officials received training to become certified facilitators through the American Lung Association’s Freedom from Smoking course. This training equips facilitators with evidence-based strategies and skills to lead group cessation classes. The training was financially supported by Case Western Reserve University.
Following the training, health department staff members collaborated with partner agencies to pilot the program at various community sites in the city. For example, University Hospitals Glenville Wellness Center started offering group counseling tobacco prevention sessions over seven weeks in January. The classes aim to generate interest from residents and have them seek out support and share their expectations with the program.
The tobacco cessation classes are expected to roll out in June with limited class sizes. Residents who are interested in participating can request more information by completing an interest form.