Great American Smokeout Urges Commitment to Quit for Better Health

Thursday, November 17, is the American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout, a day when all smokers, including those who use electronic nicotine delivery systems or vaping devices, are encouraged to make a quit plan as a commitment to better health. A quit plan may include setting a quit date, listing reasons to quit, identifying smoking triggers, and building a strong support system.

Annabel DuFault, Tobacco Prevention Coordinator for Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) says, "When you decide to quit tobacco products altogether, you take the first step towards a longer and healthier life. Smoking or vaping increases a person's chances of contracting respiratory diseases, as well as developing many other smoking-related illnesses. By setting a quit date on the Great American Smokeout, you begin to take the necessary steps to improve your health and the health of those around you."

According to Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, North Dakota's adult smoking rate, at 15%, is higher than the current national average of 13%. Additionally, 1,000 adult North Dakotans die each year from tobacco use.

Although quitting tobacco can be difficult, it is possible and FCPH is here to help with its Break Away from Nicotine (BAN) program. The BAN program uses proven principles from the Mayo Clinic to help tobacco users leave nicotine addiction behind for good. FCPH recognizes that the most effective way to quit tobacco is through a comprehensive approach, including counseling and use of cessation medications. The BAN program has a Tobacco Treatment Specialist (TTS) who has received specialized training about tobacco-related health conditions, cessation medications, and motivational interviewing. The program is free and confidential for Cass County residents looking to quit tobacco in any form including smoking, vaping, and smokeless products. In addition to this local resource, the statewide tobacco cessation program, NDQuits, offers free support and coaching for North Dakota residents through phone and web programs.

Quick facts:
• Learn about the BAN program by calling 701.241.8195
• Learn about NDQuits by calling 1.800.QUIT.NOW (1.800.784.8669) or going to www.ndquits.health.nd.gov