Commit to Quit at the Great American Smokeout

Each year, more than 480,000 Americans die due to the use of tobacco according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Smoking-related illnesses account for nearly 80 percent of all lung cancer deaths and claim the lives of more Americans than alcohol, car accidents, HIV, guns and illegal drugs combined.

Despite declining numbers of tobacco users across the United States, the number of young electronic cigarette users has increased from 2011 to 2015, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For this reason, Augusta University has committed to help the community reduce the number of tobacco users through the Great American Smokeout – a free annual event that aims to assist smokers in overcoming their addiction.

On Nov. 17, the Georgia Cancer Center, Georgia Prevention Institute and The College of Dental Medicine will set up five Commit to Quit stations to discuss:

• The buzz behind e-cigarettes and tobacco-use
• Proven strategies and helpful tips to quit smoking
• Cessation resources and how to access them
• Free lung cancer screening

Join Augusta University students, faculty and staff in promoting health and preventing cancer.

The following stations will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Health Sciences and Summerville campuses:

Health Sciences

• Children’s Hospital of Georgia lobby
• Education Commons lobby
• Medical Office Building lobby
• Augusta University Cardiovascular Center

Summerville

• Jaguar Student Activities Center (JSAC)

For more information on cessation services, visit augusta.edu/cancer/tobaccofree.

By Giovanna Torres Fabbri