Tobacco Cessation
Helping cancer patients and survivors quit for a healthier future tobacco use can impact cancer treatment recovery and overall health. At Astera Cancer Care and Solara, we understand that quitting is challenging, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Our comprehensive evidence-based program provides individual therapy, pharmacological support, and educational support groups that help you become tobacco-free in a way that works for you.
Our Services
- Individualized Psychotherapy: One-on-one counseling with a Tobacco Trained Specialist devising a personalized quit plan based on individual needs, medical history, and readiness to quit. We’ll also be addressing behavior modification strategies, identifying triggers, and developing coping mechanisms to provide support for anxiety, depression, and stress related to tobacco use and cancer.
- Pharmacological interventions: Our specialized Nurse Practitioner offers medically supervised options to assist with quitting, including: nicotine replacement therapy (NRTs), prescription medications (if appropriate), and/or combination therapy (if appropriate). Medications are prescribed based on an individual’s health conditions and treatment plans. Periodic check-ins with the Nurse Practitioner are also provided to adjust medications and manage side effects.
- Peer Support Group: This non-judgmental, encouraging environment provides weekly peer-to-peer guidance co-facilitated by a Tobacco Cessation Specialist and specialized Nurse Practitioner.
- Tobacco Cessation Education Series: This 6-week course is offered twice annually to learn about the risks of nicotine addiction, benefits of quitting, attempting abstinence, managing withdrawal symptoms, managing cravings and triggers, dealing with setbacks, and celebrating a tobacco-free lifestyle.
Who can benefit from this program?
- Any established Astera Cancer Care or Solara patient struggling with tobacco use who wants to improve long term health and is seeking professional support.
- We welcome individuals at all stages of readiness whether you are considering quitting, actively trying, or have relapsed in the past.
- Our program is open to cancer patients currently undergoing treatment as well.
How can I enroll?
Step 1: Contact us at 732-390-7750 x.QUIT (7848) or Tobacco.Cessation@asterahealthcare.org to schedule an initial consultation. You can also ask your provider to place a referral on your behalf.
Step 2: Meet with a Tobacco Cessation Specialist for an initial tobacco assessment and to develop a personalized quit plan.
Step 3: Meet with our specialized Nurse Practitioner for medication options.
Step 4: Your Tobacco Cessation Specialist will assist you in enrolling in our weekly peer support group for ongoing guidance and encouragement and/or our 6-week Tobacco Cessation Education Series.
Additional External Resources:
CDC Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) Free counseling & Support
Smokefree.gov - Tips, apps, & quitting tools.