The Great American Smokeout
The American Cancer Society marks the Great American Smokeout on the third Thursday of November each year by encouraging smokers to use the date to make a plan to quit, or to plan in advance and quit smoking that day. By quitting — even for one day — smokers will be taking an important step towards a healthier life – one that can lead to reducing cancer risk.
Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the US, yet about 42 million Americans still smoke cigarettes — a bit under 1 in every 5 adults. As of 2012, there were also 13.4 million cigar smokers in the US, and 2.3 million who smoke tobacco in pipes — other dangerous and addictive forms of tobacco.
More Information About Quitting
Quitting is hard, but you can increase your chances of success with help. The American Cancer Society can tell you about the steps you can take to quit smoking and provide quit-smoking programs, resources, and support that can increase your chances of quitting successfully. To learn about the available tools, call us at 1-800-227-2345. You can also find free tips and tools below.
What Kind of Quitter Are You?
Are you or someone you care about trying to quit smoking? There may be as many ways to quit as there are quitters. Will you quit cold turkey? Maybe cut back a little-by-little? Check out these quitter characters to see which one matches your quit-style. No matter how you quit, we’re celebrating you! See the full gallery of supporters and quitters to share on your Facebook page.
THE COLD TURKEY:
Someone who quits smoking abruptly and completely.
Quit tip: Kicking the tobacco habit offers some benefits that you’ll notice right away.
THE BACKSLIDER:
Someone who makes several attempts to quit.
Quit tip: Avoid alcohol. Drinking lowers your chance of success.
THE SUBSTITUTE:
Someone who uses distraction and substitutions to help bust cravings.
Quit tip: Create new habits and a non-smoking environment around you.
THE ENLIGHTENED:
Someone who is motivated to quit for a powerful reason.
Quit tip: Remember your reasons for quitting and think of all the benefits to your health, your finances, and your family.
THE PHARMER:
Someone who uses medicines to help them quit.
Quit tip: The best way to quit will be some combination of medicine, a change of personal habits, and emotional support.
THE WEANER:
Someone who cuts back gradually.
Quit tip: Instead of using a slip as an excuse to go back to smoking, look at what went wrong and renew your commitment to staying away from smoking for good.