Igniting Change The Great American Smokeout Sparks a National Movement Towards a Tobacco-Free Future

 

SYRACUSE, N.Y.— In a collective effort to clear the air and promote a healthier, smoke-free America, the annual Great American Smokeout takes center stage today, November 16. Orchestrated by the American Cancer Society, this nationwide initiative urges smokers to seize the day as a catalyst for breaking free from tobacco, paving the way towards a tobacco-free lifestyle.

 

“The Great American Smokeout isn't just a one-day initiative; it's a call to action for smokers to take the first step towards breaking free from the chains of tobacco addiction,” said Kristen Richardson, director of the CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems at St. Joseph’s Health. “Participants are encouraged to quit smoking for the day, with the hope that it will inspire them to quit for good.”

 

This year's theme, "Igniting Change," emphasizes the profound impact people can have on their own lives and the lives of those around them by choosing to quit smoking.

“As part of our unwavering commitment to promoting health and wellness within our community, the CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems at St. Joseph’s Health is proud to join forces with the American Cancer Society in support of the Great American Smokeout,” said Richardson. “This annual event marks a significant milestone in the journey toward a smoke-free nation and aligns seamlessly with our mission to empower individuals to break free from tobacco addiction.”

As the American Cancer Society says, "You don't have to stop smoking in one day; start with day one." About 28 million Americans still smoke cigarettes. According to the CDC, more than half of adult cigarette smokers report having made a quit attempt in the past year. The CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems provides support to health care providers committed to helping their patients kick the habit for good.

“Most adults want to quit smoking and/or vaping, but sometimes simply don't know what steps to take for lasting success,” said Richardson. “It's important to recognize that even reducing the number of cigarettes smoked daily by just one is a notable victory for our health."

The New York State Smokers' Quitline strongly encourages all people who use commercial tobacco or vape products to give quitting a try, or to try again. Many free resources are available by calling 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487), texting QUITNOW to 333888, or visiting nysmokefree.com.  

Healthcare leaders and organizations have another resource in the fight against tobacco. Health Systems for a Tobacco-Free New York (HSTFNY) launched a new online portal, designed to empower healthcare leaders and organizations to implement tobacco use treatment initiatives in their organizations. One of the website's key features is its user-friendly interface, which enables healthcare leaders to seamlessly connect with their Regional Tobacco Control Specialist. Visit the new website today at https://www.nyhealthsystems.org/.

 

About St. Joseph’s Health

St. Joseph’s Health, a non-profit health care system in Syracuse, NY, has been a trailblazer in the field since 1869, when it became the city’s first public hospital. Its commitment to exceptional care is evident in a network of primary, specialized, and partner care facilities, providing a range of services to promote long-term health in the communities we serve. St. Joseph’s has been ranked by Consumer Reports among the top 15 heart surgery centers in the country, is a designated Primary Stroke Center, and is consistently named a Best Regional Hospital and #1 in the Syracuse Metro area by US News and World Report. St. Joseph’s Health is dedicated to excellence, innovation, and compassionate patient care. From pioneering ambulance services in Syracuse to being the first in Central New York to use DaVinci robotic surgery technology in an outpatient facility, St. Joseph’s legacy of firsts demonstrates its ongoing commitment to leading medical advancements. Affiliated with St. Joseph’s Physicians and a member of Trinity Health, St. Joseph’s Health is your trusted partner in health, combining a rich history with a forward-thinking approach to ensure the health and well-being of our communities.

 

About Trinity Health

Trinity Health is one of the largest not-for-profit, Catholic health care systems in the nation. It is a family of 115,000 colleagues and nearly 26,000 physicians and clinicians caring for diverse communities across 25 states. Nationally recognized for care and experience, the Trinity Health system includes 88 hospitals, 131 continuing care locations, the second largest PACE program in the country, 125 urgent care locations and many other health and well-being services. Based in Livonia, Michigan, its annual operating revenue is $20.2 billion with $1.2 billion returned to its communities in the form of charity care and other community benefit programs.

 

 

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