November 17 is the date this year of the American Cancer
Society’s Great American Smokeout. This date is meant to encourage the over 42
million smokers in the United States to either develop a plan to quit or use
the date as their official quit date. What a lot of people don’t know is the
long history of the Great American Smokeout. Events started in the 70s and have
contributed over the years to the many changes in our smoking laws for public
places, workplaces, hospitals and in tobacco advertising. These changes have protected
non-smokers and supported smokers who wanted to quit, saving millions of lives
along the way.
Take it from me, an ex-smoker named Carla, that quitting
tobacco is one of the hardest things someone can do. I smoked for many years
beginning the habit when I was 16 years old and started to make commitments to
quit beginning at age 40. Not only did I
try the cold turkey route numerous times, but the nicotine gum and patches. It
took my third time using the nicotine patches before I was able to stay off
nicotine, and I’m confident I’ll never smoke cigarettes again.
If you or someone you know is contemplating quitting,
research shows that smokers who have support are more likely to quit for good. There
are many more tools and resources available now than when I started quitting.
Not only are there the traditional nicotine replacement products, but there are
prescription products to lessen cravings. Health insurers are on board to provide
support with benefits and incentives. Telephone hotlines, stop smoking groups,
counseling, and even online quit groups can help you feel like you’re not alone
in your quest to be tobacco-free. Friends and family members can provide
encouragement and support, but make sure you inform your support network about
your plan. If they don’t know, they can’t help.
You’ll start noticing the benefits right away for some
things. Others may take a little more time.
·
Being less out of breath climbing stairs or
participating in other activities
·
Food tastes better
·
Sense of smell returns
·
Hair, clothes and your vehicle no longer reek of
smoke
·
Teeth and nails stop yellowing
·
The damaging effects of tobacco will no longer
play havoc with your skin and body systems
·
Save money every day you don’t smoke
·
Smoke-free buildings and events no longer bother
you. You’ll start welcoming them!
·
Breathe deep. Enjoy the fresh air without
coughing.
There are many tools and resources available on the American
Cancer Society website regarding the Great American Smokeout and about smoking
in general. You can call them anytime at 800-227-2345 for more information on
support and/or telephone coaching in your area. If you’re a smoker, circle the
date of November 17 to be the beginning of your smoke-free life. http://www.cancer.org/healthy/stayawayfromtobacco/greatamericansmokeout/index
Staying away from tobacco is the single most important thing
you can do for your health. Claim victory over
tobacco addiction. You won’t regret it.
