 Tobacco and Substance Abuse
Tobacco use remains the leading preventable cause of death in the United States , causing more than 440,000 deaths each year and resulting in an annual cost of more than $75 billion in direct medical costs. Almost a quarter of Arkansans smoke, causing more than $634 million annually in direct medical costs. It is now well documented that smoking cigarettes causes chronic lung and heart disease, and cancer of the lung, esophagus, larynx, mouth and bladder. Cigarette smoking contributes to cancer of the pancreas, kidney and cervix. The consequences of using smokeless tobacco include cancer of the gums, mouth, pharynx, larynx and esophagus.
To help those smokers and users of smokeless tobacco products who want to quit, a three-tiered smoking cessation program is available. Individuals may choose the tier that best suits their needs.
Tier 1 Six-week over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). This level is designed for those who feel they need no assistance other than NRT. The employee can be
reimbursed up to $30 per week for six weeks for over-the-counter NRT with proper documentation.
Tier 2 Cessation materials of the Quit Line offered by Arkansas Department of Health.
Tier 3 This level is designed for employees who need additional help. It includes smoking cessation counseling through the Arkansas Employee Assistance Program.
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