Free month of stop-smoking patches offered to Iowans

Quitline Iowa is doubling the amount of nicotine patches and gum available to callers during the month of January.

Iowans can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) to receive a free four-week supply of nicotine patches, gum or lozenges.

Quitline Iowa has specially trained coaches who help make individualized plans and offer ongoing support through follow-up calls.

After January 31, Quitline will resume offering callers the two-week supply available throughout the year.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, cigarettes in Iowa cost $5.18 per pack on average, or about $36 per week and $1,900 annually for a pack-a-day smoker.

For smokers who need help beyond the four weeks of medication through Quitline Iowa, most pharmacies sell a two-week supply for about $25 - less than the cost of one week's supply of cigarettes to a pack-a-day smoker.

To calculate how much tobacco costs you based on your brand and the amount you smoke, visit www.quitlineiowa.org