Great American Smokeout 2014

  • Published
  • By Gayle Kenyon
  • Altus AFB Health Promotion
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Since the 1970s, the third Thursday of November has been known as the Great American Smokeout.  The American Cancer Society sponsored the first official Smokeout on Nov. 18, 1976, in California when one million smokers committed to quit for the day.  It was such a success that the Society decided to take the program nationwide the following year and it continues as a tradition to this day.

The purpose of the Smokeout is to challenge people to stop using tobacco for the day and perhaps move them a step closer to quitting for good.  Over the years, the Smokeout has helped significantly in changing the attitudes of Americans about tobacco in general.  This heightened awareness draws attention to the deaths and chronic diseases caused by tobacco use.  Communities are taking the initiative to develop programs and smoke-free laws in efforts to create a healthier environment, which not only supports tobacco users who want to quit but also protects non-tobacco users from the toxic by-products.  Tools are also made available to help people know how they can quit and stay quit.

The 2014 Great American Smokeout will be held Nov. 20.  Tobacco users are encouraged to quit for the day.  Non-tobacco users are encouraged to Adopt-a-Smoker for the day and give support to help them through the day.  One small way of showing support is for non-smokers to also give up something they enjoy for the day, such as coffee, chocolate or soda drinks.

In preparation for the Smokeout, following are some suggestions to help make it go a little easier for those who choose to quit tobacco for the day:
· Do not use any tobacco products at all
· Keep active--try walking, exercising, or doing other activities or hobbies
· Drink lots of water
· Avoid situations where the urge to smoke is strong
· Reduce or avoid alcohol
· Change your routine.  For example, use a different route to work, drink tea instead of coffee.  Eat breakfast in a different place or eat different foods.
· If you are ready to quit for good, attend a tobacco cessation class or start following a self-help plan.

For those who are ready to take the next step in becoming tobacco free, let the 2014 Great American Smokeout be the beginning of a new life.  Pick up your Commit to Quit Kit at the Fairway to Health Golf Scramble & Information Fair on Nov. 19 at the Windy Trails Golf Course or from the Health Promotion Office at the Medical Group and celebrate becoming a healthier you by participating in the golf scramble.  For more information or assistance with quitting tobacco for good, contact Health Promotion at 481-5647.