The Great American Smokeout: Quit for a Healthier Life

Great American Smokeout

Public Health’s Office of Health Promotion’s Chronic Disease Prevention program encourages Montgomery County residents to participate in The Great American Smokeout, a nationwide initiative by the American Cancer Society, that encourages individuals to quit smoking for at least one day and raises awareness about the severe dangers of tobacco use.

First held in California in 1977, the annual event is observed every year on the third Thursday of November. In 2025, it falls on November 20.

🔥 The Dangers of Smoking and Why You Should Quit

Smoking is a significant preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States.

  • Extreme Health Risks: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tobacco product use remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. In 2022, 49.2 million (19.8%)—or nearly 1 in 5—U.S. adults reported current tobacco product use.
  • A Leading Killer: Each year, over 480,000 people in the U.S. die from smoking-related diseases. This means smoking causes 1 out of every 5 deaths in the country.
  • Body Damage: Smoking damages nearly every organ in the body, leading to cancers (lung, throat, mouth, etc.), heart disease, stroke, lung diseases (like COPD), and infertility.
  • Immediate Benefits of Quitting: Quitting is the most important step to improve your life's length and quality. Benefits begin almost immediately, reducing the risk of heart disease, cancer, and stroke.

✅ How to Participate

The Great American Smokeout is an opportunity to quit smoking and support others:

  • For Smokers: Use this day as a commitment to quit. Seek support from friends, family, or structured cessation programs.
  • For Supporters: Offer encouragement to friends or family members who are trying to quit, and celebrate their success stories.

📞 Get Help to Quit Today

If you or someone you know is trying to quit, you are not alone. Please call or visit for support and resources. Call 1-800-Quit-now or visit Quit For Life, or for vaping cessation, visit Live Vape Free.