‘It’s Quitting Time’ weeklong event begins June 15

Tobacco and e-cigarette users in North Dakota are encouraged to set a quit date during It’s Quitting Time, a statewide quit week that will take place June 15 - 21. It’s Quitting Time is a partnership between the North Dakota Department of Health, Tobacco Free North Dakota, and North Dakota local public health units, which aims to bring awareness to the dangers of tobacco and encourages those who are ready to quit to take the first step.

“A comprehensive quit plan always includes setting a quit date, and the week of It’s Quitting Time provides an opportunity to do just that. Fargo Cass Public Health is here to offer support, resources and tips for those who are ready to quit. Taking small steps like removing tobacco products and triggers from the home and work environment, and replacing those items with healthy foods, stress-relieving aids, and reminders of the benefits of a tobacco-free lifestyle can be a great way to start the quitting process,” said Melissa Markegard, Tobacco Coordinator at Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH).

It’s Quitting Time is an opportunity for tobacco and e-cigarette users to seek help with quitting from a healthcare provider, NDQuits, or FCPH. These entities can help develop a quit plan and provide tools and resources to greatly improve a tobacco user’s odds at success. FCPH and NDQuits provide additional support in the form of personal coaching and nicotine replacement therapy medication. Free nicotine patches, nicotine gum, or nicotine lozenges are provided to qualified enrollees. 

Despite declining tobacco use rates in North Dakota, 19.1% of adults in the state still smoke. According to the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, smoking causes 1,000 deaths each year in the state and contributes to nearly $326 million in annual healthcare costs. Tobacco is still a problem in North Dakota. FCPH, Tobacco Free North Dakota, and NDQuits are committed to reducing tobacco use in our state.

For more information, please contact Melissa Markegard at 701.476.4083 or visit www.ndquits.com