Commit to Quit on the Great American Smokeout

Smokers and users of vaping devices are encouraged to participate in the Great American Smokeout on Thursday, Nov. 21, as their quit date. Quitting commercial tobacco and nicotine is one of the best steps for improving your health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases like COPD, cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Every year, around 1,000 North Dakotans die from commercial tobacco use.

With a smoking rate of 13.4%, North Dakota exceeds the national average of 12.1%, according to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. North Dakotans can join thousands nationwide as part of the American Cancer Society’s **Great American Smokeout**. Resources like NDQuits and local public health units offer free support, coaching, and materials to help people quit.

Wells County District Health Unit encourages setting a quit plan, which may include choosing a quit date, identifying triggers, and building a support system. NDQuits also provides free statewide coaching and additional quit tools.

"The Great American Smokeout is a perfect opportunity to start a tobacco-free life," said Jordan Beckley, Prevention Coordinator at Wells County District Health Unit.

Tobacco users can get help enrolling in NDQuits with assistance from their primary care provider, local public health unit or by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669). TDD users can call toll-free at 1-800-842-4681. Enrollment in NDQuits is also possible online at hhs.nd.gov/ndquits