[Written by Amanda Mulhern, manager of St. Peter’s Health Partners Community Health Programs.]
As late November rolls around, cigarette smokers across the nation will once again try to quit for a day – just one day. They don’t have to stop smoking entirely in one day. Just start with one day.
November 21 is the Great American Smokeout, an annual event sponsored by the American Cancer Society (ACS) that encourages smokers to quit for a day. ACS knows that quitting is hard and often takes many quit attempts before giving up cigarettes for good. The Great American Smokeout is a great day – and a great way – to step up one’s commitment to quitting.
Millions of Americans have opted out of smoking in recent years thanks to the powerful work of organizations such as the ACS and the Tobacco Control Program in NYS. And yet, as cigarette use has steadily declined, millions have turned to a dangerous new trend – vaping. E-cigarette use in youth is especially worrisome as nicotine exposure can harm the developing adolescent brain.
Is vaping “safer” than smoking? So far, the science is mixed. We do know that vaping allows substances into the lungs that are not meant to be inhaled, including chemicals found to be cancer causing. Still, as vaping is often perceived to be “healthier” than smoking cigarettes, some smokers combine the two methods.
Unfortunately, the perception that smokeless devices carry little risk is false.
Recent research from Ohio State University found that vaping in combination with cigarette smoking accelerates the rate of developing lung cancer compared to smoking alone: the risk of cancer was four times higher among men and women who vaped and smoked than those who only smoked.
Anyone who has witnessed tobacco-related illnesses knows it is worth quitting. The Great American Smokeout – or for some, the Great American Vapeout – can be a crucial first step toward a healthier life. Chances are you’ve tried quitting before. This time, let us help.
The New York State Quitline offers a free texting support program for teens and young adults who need help quitting vaping. NYS youth and young adults can receive age-appropriate supportive and motivating text messages to aid their quit efforts. Text “DROP THE VAPE” TO 88709 to join the program.
In addition, the Butt Stops Here (BSH) is a smoking-cessation program that adults can participate in from the comfort of their homes. Led by a trained facilitator, it combines group support, education, coaching and supplies. Virtual groups meet once a week for seven weeks. Best of all, the program is FREE. And in exciting news, BSH will begin offering a group in January for those who use e-cigarettes.
For more information about BSH and to register for upcoming programs, visit www.HealthPrograms.org.
