Posted November 17, 2016
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month and the American Cancer Society sets aside the Thursday before Thanksgiving as the one day for all smokers to make a plan to quit smoking for good. This year, that date is November 17th.
Despite the overwhelming evidence to quit, approximately 40 million American adults still smoke, and tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the country. In Sarasota County, our smoking rates are significantly higher than the Florida average during pregnancy. Babies who are exposed to smoke in the womb are more likely to be born early, too small, and an increased risk of SIDS once born.
Take this time, along with people around the US, to commit to quit. The health benefits begin the moment you stop smoking – especially if you are pregnant. Quitting can be hard, but there is help. If you are pregnant, contact us for free resources and tools to have a healthy pregnancy – including quitting smoking: 941-861-2905.
Other resources for help:
- Talk to a Quit Coach® who can help you quit tobacco 1-877-U-CAN-NOW (1-877-822-6669)
- Online help quitting is only a click away. Visit https://www.quitnow.net/florida/ or https://www.smokefree.gov/
- Looking for face-to-face help? Find classes near you by visiting www.ahectobacco.com or calling 941-361-6602.
For a fun tip and unique method of distraction during a craving while you are trying to quit, check out the American Cancer Society’s new game: Zombie Smokeout