The Great Smokeout is underway in Lansing and Jackson Thursday. This is part of a nationwide event sponsored by the American Cancer Society.
It's a free event, geared at helping smokers quit tobacco use.
In Lansing, you can attend at Forest Community Health Center at 2316 S. Cedar Street from 1 - 5 p.m. in the community room.
It's a drop-in event where smokers who want to quit can hear about resources, including free medications and even developing a plan to quit.
"The Great American Smokeout is an opportunity to remind tobacco users that there are resources available to help them quit, and to support tobacco users in their efforts to quit," said Linda S. Vail, Ingham County Health Officer. "If you smoke, quitting tobacco is one of the best things you can do for your health."
Some facts on tobacco use:
- Tobacco use remains the largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in Michigan, killing more than 16,200 residents each year.
- In Ingham County, 20.7% of adults, and 9.1% of youth smoke cigarettes.
Studies show that many users will attempt to quit several times before they are successful.
Research shows that while quitting is difficult for most, people who use tobacco can increase their success in quitting with help. Quitters are most successful when using a combination of therapies, including nicotine replacement, counseling, self-help materials and a strong support network.
Resources available to local residents include:
- "Tobacco and You," a free, weekly, drop-in support group that meets on Wednesdays, 2-3 p.m. at Forest Community Health Center located at 2316 S. Cedar Street in Lansing in the Community Room.
- Quit Tobacco Workshops, free, one-time, two-hour workshops that help smokers develop a quit plan. Lunch or dinner is provided. Call (517) 887-4586 for details and dates.
- The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services' (MDHHS) Tobacco Quitline, 1-800-784-8669, provides free telephone coaching for the uninsured, pregnant women, those with Medicaid and Medicare, veterans, cancer patients and American Indians. Free nicotine replacement medications are available for those who qualify.
