Celebrate Great American Smokeout

On November 20, people who smoke from across the country will put down their cigarettes for the Great American Smokeout. “About 85 percent of Colorado smokers have indicated that they want to quit. The Great American Smokeout is an ideal time for people who smoke to tackle the challenge,” said Caleb Gates, Tobacco Cessation Specialist for San Juan Basin Health. “On November 20, with the support of others, people have the opportunity to quit for the day, which can often lead to quitting for good.”

 

The American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout, a national annual event, spreads awareness of tobacco risks and benefits of quitting at any age.

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the U.S. About 4,300 Coloradoans die every year from tobacco-related illnesses. Smoking leads to severe health problems, including cancer, heart disease and strokes.

 

When people who smoke quit for good, their health quickly begins to improve. According to research, within 20 minutes after quitting, a smoker’s heart rate and blood pressure have dropped. Within 12 hours, the carbon monoxide levels in their blood have decreased. As soon as two weeks, their circulation and lung functions have improved. Long-term health benefits of quitting include decreasing the risk of cancer, heart disease and strokes and increasing the life span.

 

Help and support is available locally by calling San Juan Basin Health at 247-5702, ext. 236 or the Colorado QuitLine, a free telephone coaching service for quitting tobacco that offers a free supply of the patch. Those who use the QuitLine along with the patch are nine times more likely to quit successfully compared to those quitting on their own. To contact the QuitLine, call 1.800.QUIT.NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit www.coquitline.org. San Juan Basin Health’s Lasso Tobacco Coalition also provides help and cessation resources to local employers