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Are you ready to quit smoking?

Washtenaw County Health Department officials urge tobacco users to consider smoking less or quit smoking for at least one day by participating in the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout on Thursday, November 20,  2008.

  gasout   

The Great American Smokeout is a national campaign that began in the 1970s to raise awareness of the dangers of tobacco smoking and secondhand smoke and to make tobacco users aware of the many effective ways to quit smoking for good.  And it offers smokers a whole day to begin that journey to becoming smoke free. It also provides an opportunity to increase awareness on the health hazards of tobacco use and educate people on effective ways to reduce or eliminate tobacco use dependency.  

The Smokeout has helped bring about dramatic changes in Americans’ attitudes about smoking, which have led to community programs and smoke-free laws that are now saving lives in many states. With the implementation of the Washtenaw County Clean Indoor Air Regulation in 2003, Washtenaw County became the second county in Michigan to pass a law that protects workers and the public from secondhand smoke. It remains as one of the strongest smoking regulations in the state of Michigan.

Did you know?

The State of Michigan has a smoking rate of 22%. In Washtenaw County, 16% of county residents smoke. Although this is a very impressive number, we still have work to do. Tobacco use is the most preventable cause of death. Heart disease, stroke, cancer, emphysema, and pneumonia are major health issues associated with tobacco use. Second hand smoke is also a major threat to one’s health, causing respiratory problems, increased ear infections and 80% more coughing and wheezing in children.

The decision to quit smoking can be very anxiety-producing. But on this day, Thursday, November 20th, you can begin to walk the path to becoming smoke free – one day at a time.

There are a variety of smoking cessation and support programs to accommodate all types of personalities. Such programs include self-help materials, on-line therapy, group therapy, buddy networks, and strong support of family and friends. For a more positive outcome, select a program that best fits your personality and daily schedule. Some insurance plans pay for smoking cessation programs and medications to assist you in quitting smoking. Call your insurance carrier to see if they provide cessation coverage. There are also free or low cost smoking cessation resources available.

Remember!

Individuals who attempt to quit smoking are more successful if they use a combination of methods, such as nicotine replacement therapies, smoking cessation classes, self-help materials and a strong support network of family and friends. Other indicators that affect the level of smoking rates and the ability to quit include income and education.

Here is a list of smoking cessation resources to assist you in quitting smoking:

The Great American SmokeOut is also a great time to show your support for the Campaign To Make Michigan Air Smoke Free. Contact your State Legislatures and write to your local newspapers in support of a smoke free Michigan! If you would like more information on quitting smoking please contact DeBorah Borden at (734) 544-6874.

 

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