November 18th is the Great American Smokeout Day

Thursday, November 18, 2010 is the 35th Annual Great American Smokeout sponsored by the American Cancer Society. This is an annual event that encourages smokers to quit for at least 1 day and challenges them to stop permanently.

• In 2008, about 5.6 million, or 21.3% of African Americans smoked, compared to 22.0% of white Americans.

• While the rates of smoking in all segments of the population are similar, African Americans are more likely to suffer disproportionately from deadly and preventable diseases associated with smoking. Compared to white Americans, African Americans are at increased risk for lung cancer.

Take the “Smokeout Challenge” and quit smoking for a day, a week, or get an early start on your smoke-free New Year’s resolution.

Cigarette smoking is dangerous to your health

Learn more about the dangerous effects of first-hand AND second-hand smoking.

• http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Tobacco

Get Help Quitting

Learn more about the benefits of quitting and how to take the first steps.

• http://www.smokefree.gov/

Stay on the path toward a better life

Download your personal Smokeout Countdown clock and find resources and support to help you stay smoke-free.

• http://www.cancer.org/Healthy/StayAwayfromTobacco/GreatAmericanSmokeout/index

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