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You’re ready to quit. Now what? Most Alaskan adults who smoke want to quit — and many have tried. Quitting smoking, chewing or vaping can be challenging and often takes multiple attempts. But each try teaches you more about what works for you. Success starts with having a plan and getting support.
Finding the right support is key. You’re more likely to quit for good with counseling and proven cessation tools like nicotine replacement therapy. Choosing a quit day, like the Great American Smokeout on Nov. 21, is a healthy step for yourself, your family, friends, co-workers and community.
The Smokeout is a chance to commit to quitting tobacco, even if it’s just for one day. Use it as a starting point to build a plan that helps you stay on track through tough moments and work toward quitting for good.
The health benefits of quitting: No matter how much tobacco you have used, or for how long, the health benefits of quitting are immediate and can continue for years. Smoking is a leading cause of preventable death in Alaska, but quitting reduces your risks of cancer, heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and death from these tobacco-related diseases.
Quitting also protects your loved ones from secondhand smoke and sets a positive example for youth in your community. Plus, your sense of taste improves quickly — just in time to savor the holiday season.
Free resources to help you quit: Alaska’s Tobacco Quit Line offers free tools and support to help you quit for good:
• Nicotine replacement therapy, such as patches, lozenges, and gum
• Free coaching on the phone or online
• Mobile apps, including texting support
• Customized quit plans
To enroll:
• Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)
• Text READY to 34191
• Visit alaskaquitline.com
Join the movement: The Great American Smokeout isn’t just for individuals. Businesses, health care providers and Tribal organizations can get involved by promoting a tobacco-free day and downloading event materials, aimed to support your workplace or community.
If you are a health care provider, screen your patients for tobacco use, offer education and provide referrals to quit resources when they are ready to make a quit plan.
Get ready for your Day One: You don’t have to quit in one day, but the Smokeout can be your Day One. Take the first step with the support you need — you are not alone!
Robert Lawrence is a board-certified Family Practice physician and the Chief Medical Officer for the Alaska Department of Health.
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