Iowa — Most Iowans who smoke want to quit, according to a tobacco cessation specialist, and today (Thursday) is the day for them to give it try as part of the annual Great American Smokeout.
Andy Link, associate director for cancer centers at the American Cancer Society, says quitting cold turkey is exceptionally hard, as is giving up cigarettes for a full day. He suggests starting out small by just delaying your smoke break.
The majority of Iowans don’t smoke and Link has some advice for non-smokers who’d like to encourage their smoking friends to kick the habit.
Link says the number of smokers in Iowa is falling, but very slowly.
Estimates show 27 hundred Iowans will be diagnosed with lung cancer this year, while 14 hundred of those cases will result in death. For nearly 50 years, the Smokeout has focused on helping people quit smoking, and Link says the day also applies to people who vape.
Experts at the American Cancer Society are available 24-seven to provide support, from questions about quitting smoking to looking for local resources to help you quit. Call the toll-free Quitline: 800-QUIT-NOW or you can visit www.cancer.org.
