For those who made a New Year’s resolution to quit smoking, the Department of Respiratory Care at Midwestern State University can help.

The Respiratory Care Department will offer “Freedom from Smoking” classes Tuesdays beginning Feb. 22 through April 12. The classes will be from 5:30-7 p.m. in room 302 of Centennial Hall on the MSU Texas campus. Deadline to sign up for the classes is Feb. 10.

“Quitting smoking is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health,” said Assistant Professor of Respiratory Care Jessica Fino. “Smoking-related illnesses are among the highest leading cause of death in the U.S. However, most are preventable with programs such as these.”

Fino said that one of the most important aspects of smoking cessation is getting the correct information and resources to those who need it. “Quitting any form of nicotine is not an easy task, but you don’t have to tackle it on your own. We can help.”

Respiratory Care students will assist Fino in teaching the course. “We used to do this project with our local health department, but resources have shifted to assist with COVID, making smoking cessation classes somewhat difficult to find in our community,” Fino said. “Freedom from Smoking” is an American Lung Association program.

Registration is $15, nonrefundable, to cover course materials.

Current plans are for in-person classes but could switch to virtual depending on COVID conditions.