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Avera To Manage Smoking Cessation Program On Reservations

Associated Press0

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — A research program that uses mobile technology including text messages to promote smoking cessation and ultimately prevent lung cancer deaths among Native Americans will now be handled by Avera Health.

The Walking Forward program has been managed by Rapid City Regional Hospital since it was started in 2012. Avera will now handle the $1.8 million grant from the National Cancer Institute.

The program provides cell phones to participants who then receive tailored text messages, as well cessation counseling and nicotine replacement therapy.

Health care experts have estimated that among Native Americans the average age of smoking a first cigarette is 14.

The study hopes to enroll up to 256 adults living on Rosebud and Pine Ridge Indian Reservations and in Rapid City. Avera says about 140 people are currently enrolled.

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