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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
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The Great American Smokeout, held each year on the third Thursday in November, is the day when current cigarette smokers are encouraged to quit smoking for the day. The event, in its 30th year, helps smokers when they prove to themselves that they can go without smoking for a 24-hour period. The first national Great American Smokeout, sponsored by the American Cancer Society, was held in 1977. A survey conducted after the 1998 Smokeout revealed that 74% of those surveyed had heard of the Smokeout. About 9 million American smokers participated and 3 million gave up cigarettes for the entire 24-hour period. There are about 46 million adults who smoke in the United States. Read the story of Lynn H., still smoke-free 20 years after quitting on the Great American Smokeout.
Free smoking cessation quitlines, available in many states, are an excellent resource and have been shown to double the quit rate. To find the quitline number in your area, use this interactive map and improve your success during the Great American Smokeout.
In addition, a youth component, the Great American Smokescream, has been added in recent years. The Smokescream is an event where youth literally scream out against smoking and the tobacco industry. It is conducted in conjunction with a comprehensive program that will help kids make healthy decisions about their lives.
The local American Cancer Society in your community may have specific events planned. For example, hospitals recognize babies born on the day of the Smokeout with "I'm a born non-smoker" t-shirts. The ultimate goal is to raise awareness and encourage smokers in attempts to end their nicotine dependence.
This article is a NetWellness exclusive. 
Last Reviewed: Aug 02, 2007
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Karen L. Ahijevych, PhD, RN Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs College of Nursing Comprehensive Cancer Center James Cancer Hospital & Solove Research Institute The Ohio State University |
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