The Great American Smokeout is held by the American Cancer Society on the third Thursday of November. It encourages smokers to quit, or to make a plan to do so, starting on this one day.
About the Great American Smokeout
The event has its roots in the 1970s. In 1976 the society's California division persuaded nearly a million smokers to quit for the day, and the American Cancer Society took the idea nationwide in 1977. Quitting can be tough, but it's never too late, and the health benefits begin soon after the last cigarette.
How to mark the day
- Set a quit date, and tell your friends and family
- Talk to your doctor about support and medication
- Call a quitline, such as 1-800-QUIT-NOW in the US
- Support someone who's trying to stop
