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The Department of Health (DH) will tomorrow (September 17) introduce in four general out-patient clinics nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for smokers as part of its enhanced smoking cessation services.

The new modality will contribute towards the Hong Kong Government's overall goal to protect the health of the public from the harmful effects of tobacco use.

The four general out-patient clinics of DH are:

* Aberdeen Jockey Club Clinic --- 10 Aberdeen Reservoir Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong (Tel. 2555 0381, Ext 14)

* Ngau Tau Kok Jockey Club Clinic --- 60 Ting On Street, Ngau Tau Kok, Kowloon (Tel. 2750 5410)

* Ma On Shan Health Centre --- 609 Sai Sha Road, Ma On Shan, New Territories (Tel. 2642 5895)

* Ha Kwai Chung General Out-patient Clinic --- 77 Lai Cho Road, Kwai Chung, New Territories (Tel. 2743 6377).

The NRT course may last eight to 12 weeks, depending on the type of nicotine preparation chosen.

Members of the public wishing to quit smoking may call at one of the four clinics. A fee of $37 will be charged for each visit to provide assessment, counselling and medication.

A person who wishes to enrol into the programme will first be assessed by health care staff to find out whether he/she is suitable and determined to quit the habit using nicotine replacement.

He/she will then be provided with counselling and advice on coping skills as he/she walks through the programme. Success of the programme relies on self-determination, treatment compliance and peer or family support.

End/Sunday, September 16, 2001

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