“Smoking is a real addiction and smokers are victims”: information day at Saint-Gaudens hospital for tobacco-free month

Inform without feeling guilty, that is the watchword of the operation carried out on the occasion of tobacco-free month this Friday, November 15 at the Saint-Gaudens hospital. In a stand set up near the entrance hall, a group of tobacco nurses and dieticians spent half a day interacting with smokers. “We offer them documentation for those who don’t have much time to discuss with us.” explains Céline Grand, tobacco dietitian.

The “no tobacco month” kit distributed free of charge by tabac info service is available as well as a booklet on therapeutic education on cardiovascular diseases. Smoking is one of the factors that can increase the risk of developing this type of disease. “Therapeutic education allows us to support patients so that they can actively participate in their care” explains Céline Grand.

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Smokers victims of smoking

To create discussion, they suggest trying the carbon monoxide detection blower. The device indicates the level of this gas present in our lungs, a particularly high level for smokers. “Often the result displayed does not speak to the general public, but we take the time to explain it to them, it starts the conversation.” Here, there is no question of judging people who stopped and then started again. “Smoking is a real addiction and smokers are victims. Have you stopped the first time? That’s already very good, and we can help you quit a second time” concludes Céline Grand.

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Some shyly walk past the stand and others retrace their steps to finally inquire. This is the case of Marie-Laure, a smoker for thirty years. “It’s okay now, I really need to stop for good, I’ve already tried plenty of times!” she says. His motivation this time: his health. “I go up stairs and I’m out of breath, like a 75-year-old woman. It’s no longer possible!” This Saint-Gaudinoise hopes that this time it will be the right one: “It’s true that the month without tobacco makes you think. It gives a boost when you know that you are not alone” admits. her with a smile.