LANSING, MI – Cancer patients and survivors are marking the American Cancer Society's 46th annual Great American Smokeout tomorrow by calling on elected officials to protect the health of all Michigan residents by implementing strong tobacco control legislation.
"Nearly 70% of people who currently smoke cigarettes want to quit, and the Great American Smokeout is about helping people reach that important goal. We know increasing Michigan's funding for tobacco prevention and cessation programs will help people quit and save lives," said Andrew Schepers, ACS CAN government relations director. "People who smoke or who used to smoke are at increased risk for severe illness including from COVID-19, so the sooner we can help Michiganders quit, the better. Health benefits begin occurring quickly after quitting smoking, including rapid improvements in blood carbon monoxide levels and in respiratory tract function, as well as slower improvements over time in immune function."
As we get ready to gather for the Thanksgiving holiday, there's so much to be thankful for this year as we begin to gather with family and friends again. However, we must continue looking out for each other's health by keeping people from starting to use tobacco products and helping those who want to quit.
If you or someone you know is trying to quit using tobacco products, call 1-800-Quit-NOW and visit cancer.org/Smokeout.
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About ACS CAN at 20
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that saves lives. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society's nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and made workplaces, including restaurants and bars, smoke-free. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we're more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers and save more lives from cancer. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.