Take Part in the Great American Smokeout on November 21, 2013

Quitting cigarettes can be one of the most difficult habits to break, especially for long-time smokers who rely on smoking as a way to relax, soothe nerves or take a break from stress. However, the two minutes of time it takes to smoke that cigarette can often add up to one long list of health problems that are linked to tobacco products, especially cigarette smoking.

Although smoking may seem like a stress reliever, this is one tough habit that can lead to many undesirable side effects. Even though people don’t think about their health in the long term, they should when it comes to the choices made whether to smoke or not. Smoking tobacco products puts your body in a direct line of deadly diseases, like lung or heart disease, emphysema, breast cancer, and other terrible sufferings. So to encourage people to snuff it out for the last time, the American Cancer Society implemented the Great American Smokeout back in the 1970’s. Their efforts have led to more community programs to assist smokers, such as hotlines, quit smoking groups, nicotine replacement products, counseling and even prescriptions that help with cravings.

This year, the Great American Smokeout happens to fall on November 21, 2013. Plan to quit smoking altogether and take advantage of many hotlines and support groups that can help you get on the path to wellness and healing!

Read more about the history of this annual event. Research has revealed that smokers have better success quitting cigarettes when they are surrounded by support. The benefits of quitting are tremendously advantageous.

Within…

• 20 min your heart rate goes down
• 12 hrs. carbon monoxide in bloodstream drops to normal
• A couple of months, your risk of heart attack significantly decreases and lung functions get better
• 7 - 9 months, the shortness of breath or coughing spells will disappear
• 1 yr., the risk of heart disease gets cut in half compared to smoker
• 5 yrs., risk of strokes equal that of a non-smoker
• 10+ yrs., the cancer risks dramatically go down
• 15+ yrs., the risk of heart disease is the same as someone who does not smoke

So in essence, it takes up to 15 years to return to what your “normal” body should be after the damaging effects of cigarette smoking. Just imagine fresh breath, not having to stand outside in extreme weather conditions, saving money on buying cigarettes, fresher smelling clothing and automobile, and so much more! But the biggest benefit is for your health. So take part in this important day or tell your loved ones that; “This is it!”