The Great American Smokeout

This month presents a “Tobacco Holiday” that began in the 1970’s and is always held on the third Thursday in November. “The Great American Smokeout, (GAS)”, challenges smokers, vapers, and all those who use a nicotine product to quit using for one day. This day draws attention to the reality that these products kill over 480,000 Americans each year. They are the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States.

Quitting isn’t easy and this can be the day across the country to take the important step towards a healthier life. It is a call to act. No matter how long a person has been addicted to nicotine, no matter the age, quitting improves health both immediately and has a great impact on the long-term health of their lives.

Because nicotine is so addictive, it is important to remember that the process of quitting is different for each person and almost everyone will have some symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. When a person stops using these products, their body and brain must get used to not having nicotine. This can be very uncomfortable and may cause them to feel irritable, anxious, or depressed. Help them realize that using nicotine reduction products and having support in quitting can increase their odds of quitting by over 50%.

It is never too late to quit using these products. Quitting improves your health and reduces your risk of heart disease, cancer, lung disease, and other illnesses. These products harm nearly every organ of the body, causing many diseases. This is one of the most important actions a person using these products can do to improve their health.