Great American Smokeout Thursday.

Great American Smokeout Thursday.

#OceanaCountyNews #AmericanCancerSociety

SHELBY — The American Cancer Society marks the Great American Smokeout on the third Thursday of November each year by encouraging smokers to go the distance and quit smoking for good. By doing so, smokers will take an important step towards a healthier life. This year’s Great American Smokeout will be observed Thursday, Nov. 17.

To celebrate the Great American Smokeout, Northwest Michigan Health Services and District Health Department #10 are partnering to provide low-cost and free services to those who are interested in taking a step towards becoming tobacco free.

Free activities will be offered Thursday at The Ladder Community Center located at 67 N. State St., in Shelby, including:

• A free group hypnosis session at 9 a.m. Call 231-721-5337 to register.
• A tobacco treatment specialist will be available from 9-11:30 a.m. to provide quit tips and local services. No appointment needed, just drop in.

“The Great American Smokeout reminds tobacco users that they can be successful and to support tobacco users in their efforts to quit,” stated Karen Ripke, tobacco treatment specialist for District Health Department #10. “Quitting tobacco use is the single best thing you can do for your health. The benefits of quitting begin immediately.”

Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in Michigan, killing more than 16,200 residents each year, yet many Michiganders still use tobacco. In Michigan, 20.7 percent of adults, and 10 percent of youth smoke cigarettes.

Because tobacco products are highly addictive, most users make several quit attempts before they are successful. However, there are proven resources available to help tobacco users quit.

For more information about tobacco cessation resources please contact a local tobacco treatment specialist, MaryAnne 231-721-5337 or Karen 231-305-8659. For more information about the Great American Smokeout, visit www.cancer.org.