Dear Editor,

Every year, on the third Thursday of November, smokers throughout the United States are challenged by the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout to take a step towards good health and a tobacco-free lifestyle by quitting smoking. The theme of the 2018 Great American Smokeout encourages smokers to start with day one, “You don’t have to stop smoking in one day. Start with day one.”

Studies show that tobacco use continues to be the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Indiana and throughout the United States. Quitting smoking is the single most important step one can take to reduce the risk of cancer and improve their overall health.

Quitting smoking is difficult but there is free help to start the journey to being tobacco free. Talk to your health care provider about quitting and call the Indiana Tobacco Quitline for free help. Are you ready for day one?  Visit www.quitnowindiana.com or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for free information and support.

Heidi Blake
Program Director, Kosciusko County Tobacco Free Coalition