The annual Great American Smoke Out on Thursday, Nov. 17, encourages and challenges smokers to quit smoking for a 24-hour period. Being tobacco-free for just one day can boost a smoker\u2019s confidence and inspire a long-term quit attempt.<\/span><\/p>\n What drives people to successfully quit? The motivation is unique to that individual and needs to come from within.<\/span><\/p>\n Since smoking is the number-one cause of preventable disease in the U.S., simply wanting to improve one\u2019s health can be a motivator for quitting smoking. Some quit to protect their loved ones and pets from the risks of second- and third-hand smoking. Others do so as an effort to prolong their life and watch their family grow. Whatever the motivation, the benefits to quitting smoking are almost immediate. In fact, our bodies begin to repair from the damage of smoking within 20 minutes after our last cigarette.<\/span><\/p>\n There are also financial benefits to quitting smoking. If you are currently smoking a pack a day, quitting can save you up to $3,000 a year. Imagine what you could do with that extra money! As a non-smoker, you will also pay less for your health and life insurance and have fewer tobacco-related problems, medical bills, and trips to the doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n Quitting smoking can be difficult, but not impossible. The last few decades have seen a great change in our culture about smoking. We know that the nicotine in cigarettes is very addictive and many programs have been put in place to help people quit. It may take several attempts, but those who keep trying eventually triumph. Quitting, even if just for one day, is a step in the right direction for a better quality of life.<\/span><\/p>\n Whatever your reasons for stopping smoking, Nov. 17, 2016 could be the launch of a new beginning for you. You can do this, and we are here to support your tobacco cessation efforts. For more information about help to quit smoking, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or contact the local Tobacco Cessation services at Rutland Regional Medical Center, 747-3768.<\/span><\/p>\n Sarah Cosgrove is the community health team education coordinator for tobacco cessation\/ asthma at Rutland Regional Medical Center.<\/span><\/p>\n Source:\u00a0http:\/\/www.timesargus.com\/article\/20161112\/THISJUSTIN\/311129999<\/span><\/p>\n