Thousands of people unsuccessfully try to quit smoking every year. These smokers often lack the education and/or support system that are so important when trying to overcome an addiction.

The Winchester Hospital Community Health Institute is now offering a smoking cessation program that works with smokers to help identify habits and provide tailored treatment plans. The goal is to have all participants smoke-free by week four.

The class meets from 5:30 to 7 p.m. every Wednesday, beginning May 2, at Baldwin Park I, 12 Alfred St., Suite 207 in Woburn. Participants will work with a highly-trained facilitator who will help evaluate smoking habits, discuss the barriers of quitting, customize treatment plans, provide encouragement and guide the group into a smoke-free lifestyle.

More than 20 percent of the American population smokes, according to the American Lung Association. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable and premature death in the United States. Smoking is responsible for approximately one in fives deaths within the U.S. Smoking reduces the life expectancy for males by 13.2 years and by 14.5 years for females.

The cost for the seven-week program is $135. To sign up or to learn more, call the Winchester Hospital Community Health Institute at (781) 756-4700.