A large Internet study designed to evaluate the best way to help smokers kick the habit is being sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

QuitLink is the largest Web-based trial of smoking-cessation programs ever conducted in the United States. Enrollment is free and open to any smoker over the age of 18. The study will accept 6,000 people.

"We know there are a lot of smokers out there who really want to quit, and it's difficult," Joanne Pike, of the American Cancer Society, said in a prepared statement. "So sign up now and be one of the first people to take part in a study that will give us answers on how best to help smokers today, and in the future, quit using online resources."

If you sign up, you'll be randomly enrolled in one of six Web-based smoking-cessation programs that are taking part in the study. Each program uses a different method to help smokers quit. Study participants will be followed for one year, with their progress checked at three, six and 12 months.

When the QuitLink study is completed, the American Cancer Society will analyze the data and publish its findings about which methods are most effective in helping smokers quit.

"By joining QuitLink and quitting smoking, you could not only save your own life, you could also help American society rid itself of one of the most deadly threats to human life today," Pike said.

More information

Here's where you can sign up for QuitLink.

Reference Source 101
October 25, 2004

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