The American Cancer Society estimates that about 419,000 lives are lost each year because of tobacco-related diseases. About 50 million Americans currently smoke, and about 38 million have joined the ranks of former smokers. The good news is that smokers who quit can avoid or postpone smoking-related problems, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Most people who smoke would like to quit; at least two-thirds have, and at least one-third try in a given year.
To help reduce the prevalence of smoking in the United States, the American Cancer Society sponsors the Great American Smokeout annually, on the third Thursday of November. Now in its 19th year, the Smokeout is a lighthearted, upbeat event that encourages smokers to quit for just 24 hours. Success for a day could lead to a decision to quit for a lifetime.
Quitting is tough, and smokers need to know that they can rely on friends and loved ones for support. To help someone you care about quit smoking on Smokeout day, try some of the following tips that emphasize the Smokeout's lighthearted theme of "lightening up" instead of lighting up:
* "Adopt-a-smoker" for the day by signing "adoption papers" (copies of these and other Smokeout materials are available through the Seretean Center for Health Promotion and the Well House).
* Be a calm, smiling and reassuring influence.
* If you have quit smoking, share your experiences.
* Offer encouragement and support.
* Use humor to help your friend make it through the day.
* Provide a "survival kit" with carrot sticks, sugarless gum, straws, toothpicks, etc. to hold and/or chew on.
* Send flowers or balloons during the day or on the day after to celebrate.
* Agree to give up something you love (like chocolate, coffee or soda) for the day. This will show great support on your part.
* After the Great American Smokeout, give your friend the American Cancer Society "Smart Move" brochure (call for copies).
If you are a smoker trying to quit, here are a few tips to help you on Smokeout day:
* Hide all ashtrays, matches, etc.
* Have a supply of sugarless gum, carrot sticks, etc.
* Drink lots of liquids, but avoid coffee and alcohol.
* Let others know that you are quitting for the day.
* When the urge to smoke hits, take a deep breath and hold it for 10 seconds, then release it slowly.
* Take a walk.
* Ask a friend to quit with you.
* After the Smokeout, join a smoking cessation class.
Why not consider quitting smoking as a gift to yourself and those around you? Leave the pack behind and join the Great American Smokeout on Thursday, Nov. 16.
If you would like to "Adopt a Smoker" or would like Great American Smokeout materials and information on quitting smoking, call Colleen Doyle in the Seretean Center for Health Promotion at 727-4374 or Darlynn Shepard in the Well House at 727-WELL. In addition, the Employee Assistance Program, in collaboration with Crawford Long Hospital, has made arrangements for employees of the University and the Emory Clinic to be reimbursed for completion of the Smoking Cessation Program offered at Crawford Long. For more information, call Darlynn Shepard at 727-WELL.
John Lisco is co-chair of the Cancer Control Advisory Team, Georgia Division, American Cancer Society. The Wellness column is coordinated by the Seretean Center for Health Promotion.