CHARLESTON, W. VA. – 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 West Virginia 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 critical goal.
“We know that regularly and significantly raising tobacco taxes and increasing funding for tobacco prevention and cessation programs will keep people from starting to use tobacco, help individuals quit and save lives,” said Kristy Young, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network government relations director. “Increasing funding for the state’s tobacco cessation program will help more people access the resources they need to quit, which is what the Great American Smokeout is all about. 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 West Virginians quit, the better.”
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.