So, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health is offering free nicotine patches to help city residents to quit smoking.
In fact, the Health Department is using federal stimulus money to give out 4500 nicotine patches.
Health commissioner Dr. Donald Schwarz said they'll be available through the state's smoking quit line, which will back up those patches with phone counseling.
"Stopping depends on the individual. One of the things we know is that depending on how much an individual smokes, and how strong the receptors in their brain connect with the nicotine, it can take a longer or a shorter period of time," said Dr. Schwarz.
By calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW Philadelphians can request a month's supply.
This offer is part of the Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter's plan to reducing smoking in Philadelphia.
