Iowa smokers will be encouraged to use today's American Cancer Society’s 34th Annual Great American Smokeout to stop smoking or set a date to quit smoking for good.

The Iowa Department of Public Health is supporting the effort, reminding Iowans that Quitline Iowa (1-800-QUIT-NOW) offers services that are four times more successful than quitting “cold turkey.”

“The staff at Quitline Iowa does much more than send out free nicotine patches and gum,” said health department Director Tom Newton. “These trained professionals work with callers to create a personalized plan for quitting tobacco use, help set a timeline for success and provide follow up calls that are crucial to staying smoke free.”

A recent study published by the American College of Chest Physicians shows that help lines such as Quitline Iowa (1-800-784-8669) are most effective when they include follow-up services. Telephone counseling, the research shows, won't do much if it doesn't include proactive callbacks or similar strategies. Quitline Iowa users can have counselors follow up by phone at specific times during their quit attempt, or call Quitline themselves whenever they need more support.

Whether you decide to quit during the Great American Smokeout or just set a date for quitting, all of Quitline Iowa’s services are free. To get started with your own quit coach and get a two-week supply of nicotine gum, patches, or lozenges, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit www.quitlineiowa.org.