Advantages of Tobacco use Cessation Programs
Instances of respiratory illnesses, cancer and other illnesses could be lowered through use of tobacco cessation efforts. Smoking cessation programs can provide huge opportunities for improved health.
The American Cancer Society reports that tobacco use employees cost companies an typical of $1,429 per smoker per year in increased healthcare costs over non-tobacco use employees.
Implementing a smoking cessation program costs an average of $45 per staff member per year, saving companies an average of $1,383 per year for each staff member who quits smoking. Additionally, the American Cancer Society reports that smokers are absent from work 50% more often than nonsmokers.
They are also 50 percent more likely to be hospitalized and have 15 percent higher disability rates. Smoking reduces onthe- job productivity as well. Employees who take four 10- minute use of tobacco breaks a day work more than a month less per year than employees who do not take smoke breaks.
Places to start with use of tobacco cessation programs –
• Develop a “buddy” program to provide encouragement for those who commit to stop use of tobacco.
• Offer lung capacity tests at corporation wellness fairs.
• Consider reimbursement for smoking cessation tools – nicotine gum, patches and inhalers.
• Limit tobacco use areas in the workplace.
• Present on-site use of tobacco cessation sessions.
Corporate Wellness Companies