The Great American Smokeout
The Great American Smokeout is an annual event happening on the third Thursday of November. This year, the event will occur on November 20th. The goal of this event is to encourage people who use tobacco and nicotine products to quit for at least 24 hours, giving them a taste of a smoke-free life and motivating them to quit permanently.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) often promotes the idea of making it “Day One” of a lifelong commitment. Quitting may not happen in one day, but the event provides the momentum and support to make a plan and start the process.
Why the Event is Important
Leading Cause of Preventable Death: Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States, responsible for about 1 in 5 deaths annually.
Cancer Risk: Smoking is directly linked to an increased risk of at least 12 different cancers, causing about 2 out of every 10 cancer deaths in the US.
Public Health Impact: Since the Smokeout began, it has helped spark a dramatic shift in public attitudes and behavior toward smoking, leading to smoke-free laws in public places and greater awareness of the dangers of secondhand smoke.
Health Benefits of Quitting
The benefits of quitting begin almost immediately:
20 Minutes: Heart rate and blood pressure drop.
12 Hours: The carbon monoxide level in your blood drops to normal.
2 Weeks to 3 Months: Circulation improves, and lung function increases.
1 to 5 Years: The risk of a heart attack drops dramatically, with the excess risk of coronary heart disease cut in half. The risk of mouth, throat, bladder, and esophageal cancers is cut in half. The risk of stroke drops to that of a non-smoker.
10 to 15 Years: The risk of dying from lung cancer falls to about half the risk of a person still smoking. The risk of coronary heart disease is now that of a non-smoker.
Tools and Resources for Quitting
The Great American Smokeout is heavily supported by the ACS and other health organizations that provide essential tools and support.
- Professional Help: Research shows that combining counseling/support with medication is the most effective way to quit
- National Quitline: 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) connects callers to a state quitline, offering free, confidential counseling and support.
- American Cancer Society Support:
- 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-227-2345 for information, guidance, and referrals to resources.
- Empowered to Quit: A tailored, email-based tobacco cessation program.
- Online Resources: Information on creating a quit plan, dealing with cravings, using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and prescription medications.
- Community Events: Hospitals, universities, and local health organizations often host events, workshops, and provide “quit kits” to build community momentum and support.
Use this day of national support to encourage yourself or someone you know to make a plan and start a new journey to better health!
