NY Department of Health Encourages Smokers to Take Part in “Great American Smokeout” Aimed at Helping Those Quit

The month of November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month and the New York Department of Health is encouraging smokers to participate in the annual “Great American Smokeout” happening tomorrow, November 21st. The Department of Health (DOH) says the day is an opportunity for smokers to take the first steps towards quitting smoking.

The DOH says cigarette smoking still is the number one risk factor for lung cancer, which is the leading cause of death within the state. Screenings for lung cancer are encouraged for those 50 years and older who smoke or have had smoked. Early detection saves lives, the DOH added.

“Lung cancer is a deadly disease that is more often than not caused by smoking, so the most important step a person can take to protect from this disease is to not smoke or quit,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “If you smoke, take action now by developing a plan to quit, and pick a day to start your journey to a smoke-free and healthier life with a reduced risk of lung cancer. Perhaps November 21 could be the day for you.”

The Great American Smokeout is a day created by the American Cancer Society to help those who smoke begin the path towards quitting. Those who quit smoking can see their health greatly improve, but achieving it may be hard. The DOH says there are proven treatments now that can help those looking to quit smoking succeed. Some of those treatments include nicotine replacement therapy. The therapy can help with cravings and the physical withdrawals people get when trying to quit. Studies have shown that the therapy can nearly double the chances of those quitting smoking.

Other ways to help quit smoking include removing all temptations such as getting rid of cigarettes, vapes, ashtrays, and any other tobacco products from your home, car, or work. Practice saying no when offered a type of tobacco product and stock up on substitutes such as gum, hard candy, toothpicks, etc.

Finally, work on building a support system through your family and friends. You may also call the NY Quitline at 1-866-697-8487 or text at 716-309-4688 and speak with a professional to help you quit smoking. More information may also be found at NYSmokeFree.com.