The Great American Smokeout

Quitting tobacco is the single most important thing you can do to improve your health. If you're ready to quit smoking, make Thursday, Nov. 21 your quit day. North Dakotans are invited to join thousands of others across the country who are making a plan to quit as a part of the American Cancer Society's annual Great American Smokeout. All smokers, including those who use electronic nicotine delivery systems or vaping devices, are encouraged to take advantage of the wealth of resources available to help them quit.

North Dakota's smoking rate, at 18.3%, is higher than the current national average of 14%, according to the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. The impact of this public health crisis is felt by thousands of loved ones affected by smoking-related illnesses, and the 1,000 North Dakotans who die every year because of them.

Lake Region District Health Unit recognizes the most effective way to quit smoking is to make a quit plan. Our office assists those wanting to quit tobacco by providing educational materials and tobacco cessation resources. In addition, the statewide tobacco cessation program, NDQuits, offers free support and coaching.

A quit plan may include setting a quit date, listing reasons to quit, identifying smoking triggers, and building a strong support system.

"The Great American Smokeout is a step towards making yourself healthier by using the many resources available to help smokers quit," said Liz Bonney, Tobacco Prevention Coordinator. "When you quit smoking, you're also improving our communities by reducing secondhand smoke and medical costs associated with tobacco-related illness."

Tobacco users can get help quitting or by enrolling in NDQuits with assistance from Liz Bonney at Lake Region District Health Unit at (701) 662-7022, or by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW