If you have been thinking about quitting smoking, Today may be the day to quit as it's the "Great American Smokeout". Every year, on the third Thursday of November, smokers across the nation take part in the American Cancer Society Great American Smokeout. Here in St. Clair County, the health department is encouraging residents to quit as well. Jennifer Michaluk, Director of Health Education and Planning for the Health Department, says some tips to help you quit smoking are to set a smoke date, tell your family and friends you plan on quitting, keep cigarettes and other tobacco products away from you, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor about options available to help you quit.The "Great American Smokeout" began in the 1970's when smoking and secondhand smoke were commonplace. Over the years many state and local governments have responded by banning smoking in workplaces and restaurants, and raising taxes on cigarettes. If you are ready to quit smoking you can call The Michigan Tobacco Quit Line at: 1-800-QUIT-NOW. The Quit Line provides free telephone coaching for the uninsured and those with Medicaid, and Medicare. Free nicotine patches are also available for those that qualify.
