November 7, 2003

Boise State Hosts 26th Annual 'Great American Smokeout' Nov. 20

Boise State University’s Health, Wellness and Counseling Services hopes to help smokers kick the habit by hosting the 26th annual Great American Smokeout from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, on the Quad. The day includes free “Quit Kits,” a respiratory therapist (from 10 a.m.-noon), information on smoking, support and Project Filter information. Giveaways include T-shirts, beanies, fleece blankets, coffee mugs and more. The American Cancer Society first organized the Great American Smokeout in 1977 to help spotlight the dangers of tobacco use and the challenges of quitting. Over the years, the event has helped set the stage for major changes, such as smoking bans in public buildings and state lawsuits seeking compensation from tobacco companies for smokers’ Medicaid bills. In September 1990, the U.S. surgeon general outlined the following benefits of smoking cessation: - People who quit, regardless of age, live longer than people who continue to smoke. - Smokers who quit before age 50 have half the risk of dying in the next 15 years compared with those who continue to smoke. That number shoots up to 90 percent for those who quit before age 35. - Smoking cessation substantially decreases the risk of cancer of the lung, larynx, pharynx, esophagus, mouth, pancreas, bladder and cervix. - People who quit also have a lower risk of contracting other major diseases, including coronary heart disease, lung diseases and cardiovascular disease. -30- Contact Media Contact Rhiannon Avery Kathleen Craven Health, Wellness and Counseling communications and marketing 208 426-5685 208 426-3275