Quitpals helps teens kick the smoking habit

   In collaboration with the American Legacy Foundation, HiTOPS (Health Interested Teens’ Own Program on Sexuality) has been offering smoking cessation services for adolescent clients since January 2004. The foundation has created an innovative new program for smoking cessation, inviting teens to commit to quit smoking in a three-month "Quitpals" program.
   The program is free and provides teens with individual cessation counseling and education, group support and incentives to quit smoking, including gift certificates to a local merchant.
   Most smokers begin during adolescence. Research has shown the earlier smoking begins, the greater the risk of lifelong addiction, as well as the risk of physical consequences including cancer and heart and lung disease. Smoking can also increase the risk of complications related to use of hormonal contraceptives.
   Also, smoking impairs the ability of the immune system to overcome infection with human papilloma virus (HPV). Young, sexually active women are at the highest risk for infection with HPV, which is now known to be the primary cause of cervical cancer. Early intervention and cessation can greatly reduce these risks.
   HiTOPS is located at 21 Wiggins St., Princeton. Call (609) 683-5155, ext. 11, for an appointment or for more information about enrolling in the Quitpals program.