November 20th is the 33rd Great American Smokeout sponsored by the American Cancer Society. Smokers are encouraged to stop smoking for at least one day, but, of course, the hope is that they will quit for good. By now, everyone must be aware that smoking is a very dangerous habit with devastating health consequences. Even the tobacco companies admit this.
Among current U.S. adult smokers, 70% report that they want to quit completely. In addition, more than 54% of current high school smokers in the U.S. have tried to quit smoking within the preceeding year. If you are among either of these groups, please choose a quit date (the 20th would be a good choice) and join the ranks of former smokers. Perhaps thinking of your loved ones will help motivate you or if nothing else, think of the money you are literally burning up. Cigarettes cost an average of $5.86 in Wisconsin and it adds up fast. Who couldn't use a few extra dollars in these economic times? Whatever the motivation, please take the steps to quit whether it's for one day or a lifetime. In all likelihood, you will appreciate the benefits of being a former smoker and want to continue on this path.
There are some people who have a more difficult time quitting smoking than others. Nicotine is a powerful drug and people respond differently. However, there are more help aids now than ever before and people are achieving success. In addition to different types of medications, counseling and other programming are available. The important thing is to NOT give up if there is a relapse. Set a new quit date with more determination and go at it again. Be sure to contact the Wisconsin Quit LIne (1-800-784-8669) to help increase your chance of success.
More information about quitting smoking is available at:
http://www.WiQuitLine.org http://www.cancer.org http://www.cdc.gov/Tobacco/media_communications/calendar/2008/nov_pressrelease.htm
