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DON'T SMOKE 'EM, EVEN IF YOU GOT 'EM
Thursday, November 20th, 2008 -- 10:36 am
Posted by Riley Hebert-News Director
Today is the Great American Smokeout. The American Cancer Society has set aside this day for the past 33 years to encourage people to quit smoking.
It’s estimated 45.3-million Americans smoke. 44% have tried to quit at least once.
"19% of Wisconsinites use tobacco. In Clark County alone, approximately 47 people die annually of illnesses attributed to smoking," says Jessica Thomsen with the Clark County Health Department, "The health care costs paid in Wisconsin as a result of smoking was $2.2-billion, with $13.4-million paid just in Clark County."
Statistics show most people aren’t able to quit on their first try.
"An average person can quit nine to eleven times before they're successful," she says.
Resources, such as coaching and medication, increase the likelihood a smoker will kick the habit.
While the Wisconsin Quit Line has been very successful and is a great resource, Thomsen says the state lags behind neighboring states in legislating against smoking.
"Newspaper inserts went out in September, we received over 600 back of people supporting a 100% smoke-free law, including all restaurants and bars," Thomsen explains, "Wisconsin is behind with the 100% smoke-free law, compared to Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois, who are 100% smoke-free."
The Clark County Tobacco Education Committee meets biannually and are always looking for new members. You can call Thomsen at 743-5114 to get involved.
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