Tobacco use is the United States’ most preventable cause of disease and premature death with a current or former smoker dying every 6.5 seconds as a direct cause of smoking.
If you are a smoker, this November could be your time to quit.
Sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the Great American Smokeout encourages smokers to quit smoking or using other tobacco products just for one day, in the hopes that they will quit for good.
The Great American Smokeout began in 1976 and is held every year on the third Thursday of November, with this year’s event falling on Nov. 19.
This event also raises public awareness of the consequences of smoking, the benefits of not smoking and the various ways available to quit smoking. This year’s Great American Smokeout marks the 34th anniversary of this national event as well as the two-year anniversary of Marion Regional Healthcare System becoming a smoke-free campus.
Every organ in a smoker’s body is damaged by tobacco and smoking is linked to at least 15 different cancers.
However, by quitting smoking you can increase your life expectancy, reduce the risk of developing cancer and almost instantly drop your heart rate and blood pressure. The good news is, research has shown that smokers with support such as counseling, the encouragement of friends and family members and nicotine replacement products are more likely to be successful in quitting smoking.
If you use tobacco, take a step towards a healthier life and join the millions of people on Nov. 19 doing the same thing.
For information about Smoking Cessation Classes or information on how to quit smoking contact the Marion Regional Healthcare System by calling 832-431-2080.

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