World No Tobacco Day, observed each year on May 31, is a global reminder of the dangers of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting. In Missouri, where tobacco use remains above the national average, the need for compassionate and effective cessation support is urgent.
At Link Primary Care in St. Louis, we partner with our patients to build quit plans that work—without shame, judgment, or long waits.
Tobacco’s Toll on Health
Tobacco use harms nearly every organ in the body. It’s a leading cause of:
- Lung cancer and COPD
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes complications
- Gum disease and tooth loss
- Weakened immune system
Secondhand smoke exposure also harms non-smokers—especially children and older adults.
Missouri’s Tobacco Landscape
In Missouri, almost 20% of adults smoke cigarettes—compared to the national average of 14%.
How Link Primary Care Helps You Quit
We offer:
- Same-day appointments to start your quit journey right away
- Unlimited follow-ups to adjust support as needed
- Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) prescriptions
- Behavioral coaching and stress-reduction strategies
- Affordable, personalized care
Patient Story: Breathing Free at Last
A 42-year-old father of three came to Link Primary Care ready to quit but unsure how. With a combination of weekly check-ins, nicotine patches, and stress counseling, he celebrated 6 months tobacco-free.
“I’d tried before and failed. This time was different because I had a team behind me.”
Why Quitting Matters Immediately
- 20 minutes after quitting: Heart rate and blood pressure drop
- 12 hours: Carbon monoxide levels return to normal
- 2 weeks–3 months: Circulation improves and lung function increases
- 1 year: Risk of coronary heart disease is cut in half
Tips to Start Your Quit Journey
- Pick a quit date and write it down
- Tell family and friends for support
- Identify triggers and plan for them
- Use nicotine replacements: patches, gum, or lozenges
- Seek professional help—you don’t have to do it alone
St. Louis Resources That Support You
- Missouri Tobacco Quitline: 1-800-QUIT-NOW
- Smokefree.gov
- Link Primary Care for personalized clinical support
Schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Davis using the following link:
https://calendly.com/jeffreydavis-linkprimarycare/link-primary-care-meeting
Get more information on our website at linkprimarycare.com
