The Washoe County Health District is encouraging tobacco users to participate in the Great American Smokeout today, which is an opportunity for smokers and vapers to pledge to go smoke-free.
The one-day challenge can lead to a long-term plan to quit for good, according to the health district.
“Today is a perfect opportunity to quit using tobacco products,” Kevin Dick, Washoe County district health officer, said in a statement. “The risks of tobacco-related products continues to increase. Now with the vaping epidemic growing, people need to understand the consequences of using these products and the Great American Smokeout is a perfect opportunity to quit.”
Since 1976, the Great American Smokeout has helped motivate people to quit smoking. While smoking rates have declined, about 15.2 percent of Washoe County adults currently smoke, which is higher that the U.S. rate of 14 percent.
While everyone has a different reason for quitting tobacco, health officials say most people will need assistance in their journey to becoming a non-smoker.
Free help is available.
- The Nevada Tobacco Users’ Helpline is 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Speak to a licensed counselor for confidential assistance in both English and Spanish. Details: www.NevadaTobaccoQuitline.com.
- Baby and Me is a program offered by the Washoe County Health District specifically to help pregnant women and their partners quit smoking and to remain smoke free after the baby is born. Quitting smoking improves the short and long-term health outcomes for both the baby and parents. Details: 775-328-2480.
- The Health District website also has cessation resources to help people quit using tobacco, as well as information about e-cigarettes and avoiding secondhand smoke.
Details: https://www.washoecounty.us/health/programs-and-services/cchs/chronic-disease-prevention/be-tobacco-free/index.php
