Celebrating the Great American Smokeout

Today marks the 25th anniversary of the Great American Smokeout, an American Cancer Society sponsored event designed to encourage smokers to give up cigarettes for 24 hours. One single day that could potentially lead to two days, three days — and ultimately a lifetime of freedom from addiction to tobacco.

Even hard core smokers can’t argue with the facts: smoking wreaks havoc on your body and can ultimately kill you. As the compelling anti-smoking ad campaign states: "It’s an outrage. It’s the truth."

According to the Cancer Society Website (http://www.cancer.org), the benefits of a smoking cessation program begin almost immediately. Within 20 minutes of quitting, a person’s blood pressure drops and the temperature in his or her hands and feet increases to normal. Within 24 hours, there’s a diminished risk for heart attack. Within two to three months, the circulatory system improves and lung function can increase up to 30 percent. After one year, the excess risk of coronary heart disease is half that of a smoker. After 10 years, there is a decreased risk for cancer of the mouth, esophagus, bladder, pancreas and kidney.

If a healthier lifestyle isn’t a compelling enough argument — add to it the economic impact of Initiative-773. The measure, just approved by state voters, brings taxes on cigarettes in our state to a nation-leading $1.42 per pack. That’s $1.42 over and above the price of the smokes.

Even if you don’t smoke, odds are pretty good that you know and love someone who does. Today’s the perfect day to offer support and encouragement to those trying to kick the habit — even if it’s only for the next 24 hours. Or so.

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