County has help for smokers who want to quit
Posted 11/13/02

November 21, 2002, will mark the American Cancer Society's 26th annual Great American Smokeout (GASO). The public is invited to attend a luminaria ceremony at the State Capitol on the eve of the Great American Smokeout (Nov. 20), beginning at 5 p.m. The 5,600 luminaria represent the estimated number of Minnesotans who will die from tobacco-related diseases this year.

GASO began 26 years ago as just one day for smokers to become smoke-free. Today GASO is a program that not only reminds adults that they can quit, but it also educates youth on the dangers of tobacco and encourages them to lead a smoke-free, tobacco-free life.

Mille Lacs County Public Health will be supporting the Great American Smokeout by of offering Freedom From Smoking, a self help tobacco cessation program sponsored by the American Lung Association, for Mille Lacs County residents. Mille Lacs County Public Health is also interested in reinstating a tobacco task force to promote tobacco free environments and other tobacco issues in Mille Lacs County. If you are interested in the Freedom From Smoking program or tobacco task force please contact Mille Lacs County Public Health at (320)983-8318 and ask for Tony.

There are several options for those who want to quit, want to help someone quit or want to get involved in the issue of cessation.

ïContact Minnesota's Tobacco Helpline at 1-877-270-STOP or contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345 for cancer or tobacco-related information.

ïThrow away all cigarettes and matches.

ïEnlist the help of a friend for support.

ïWork with youth on tobacco prevention.

ïContact local elected officials to protect the tobacco endowment.

If you or someone you know wants to quit smoking call 1-877-270-STOP, Minnesota's Tobacco Helpline. For Hearing Impaired: Call 1-877-777-6534 (TTY).