Unimed Cuiabá launches 47th session of smoking cessation program

Unimed Cuiabá has opened registrations for the 47th cohort of its "Programa Inspirar" (Inspire Program), designed by its Preventive Medicine Nucleus – Viver Bem. This initiative targets beneficiaries seeking to quit smoking, offering five months of specialized support. Registrations are open until August 9th and can be completed online, via medical referral through the RES system, or in person at the Viver Bem space. Since its inception, the program has assisted hundreds of beneficiaries, with 615 participants between 2017 and 2025 achieving a 62% success rate in quitting smoking, underscoring the program's effectiveness. The program employs a multidisciplinary team, including doctors, psychologists, nurses, nutritionists, and physiotherapists, to provide clinical, behavioral, and pharmacological support to overcome nicotine dependence and prevent relapse. Pneumologist Dr. Keyla Maia highlights that smoking remains a leading preventable cause of death globally, linked to over 50 diseases and imposing significant financial burdens due to costly treatments. The program also addresses dependence on other nicotine products like cigars, pipes, hookahs, and e-cigarettes (vapes), with Dr. Maia noting that "nicotinism" better describes current addiction realities due to the high concentration and rapid absorption of nicotine from these devices, particularly among youth who often mistakenly believe vapes are harmless. Unimed Cuiabá provides all necessary medications free of charge throughout the five-month treatment period, which Dr. Maia states significantly aids participant adherence and offers substantial cost savings, as weekly treatment can otherwise cost around R$200. The program's human impact is profound, with many participants recovering from serious health issues like heart attacks or cancer, finding mutual support, and regaining quality of life. Eligibility requires beneficiaries to be 18 or older, have an active and current Unimed Cuiabá health plan (card starting with 056), be enrolled in chronic disease management programs, and sign a Free and Informed Consent Term.