Smokeout 2024: Latest on Hazards of Tobacco, Benefits of Quitting Now

The Great American Smokeout, an annual event held on the third Thursday of November, encourages smokers to quit for a day and consider quitting for good. On this day, it’s essential to reflect on the profound impact of smoking and tobacco use on public health -- and the ongoing battle against tobacco-related illnesses.

Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable death and disease in the United States. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cigarette smoking is responsible for more than 480,000 deaths each year. This striking figure includes deaths from lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).  

While smoking rates have declined in recent years, they still pose a significant public health threat. In 2023, about 11 percent of U.S. adults were current smokers. This translates to millions of individuals who are at risk of developing serious health problems.

Mark Dylewski, M.D., chief of general thoracic surgery at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute.

“Smoking is one of the worst things that you could ever put in your body,” said Mark Dylewski, M.D., chief of general thoracic surgery at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute. “It's not just lung cancer that it causes. Smoking is responsible for the majority of healthcare issues. It's actually a top factor that's costing this country a fortune in treating patients for heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, kidney cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer and gastrointestinal (GI) cancers.”

Surgeons who treat smokers or ex-smokers, such as Dr. Dylewski and John R. Roberts, M.D., thoracic surgeon at Lynn Cancer Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, part of Baptist Health Cancer Care, do not mince words when it comes to smoking.

“If you want to smoke, you ought to consider that you're likely going to reduce your long-term survival by more than 20 years, if you smoke 20 years or more,” said Dr. Dylewski.

Anyone who smokes should ask their doctor about smoking cessation programs, and all smokers and ex-smokers should seriously consider a lung cancer screening -- a low-dose CT scan, or LDCT. The U.S. screening guidelines urge LDCT scans for people aged 50 to 80 years old who smoke or formerly smoked, and have a 20-year history of heavy smoking (average of one pack of cigarettes per day). 

John R. Roberts, M.D., thoracic surgeon at Lynn Cancer Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital.

The Rise of Vaping and E-Cigarettes

In recent years, vaping and e-cigarettes have gained popularity, particularly among young people. While often marketed as safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes, these products are not without risk. Moreover, a new study has found that combining smoking and vaping (e-cigarettes) can increase your risk of developing lung cancer by a factor of four, compared to smoking alone. Here’s more on vaping:

• Nicotine Addiction: E-cigarettes often contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can harm adolescent brain development.
• Lung Damage: Vaping can lead to lung inflammation and other respiratory problems.
• Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: E-cigarettes contain a variety of chemicals, including heavy metals and volatile organic compounds, which can be harmful to health.

Taking the First Step: Quitting for Good

“This is a good time to remind anyone who smokes that quitting now can start lowering their risk of cancer and other chronic diseases,” explains Dr. Roberts. “They should not hesitate to consult with their doctor if they have any questions about screenings or any other health concern. But when it comes to the risk of lung cancer, waiting to quit is not a good option.”

If you're a smoker, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. The Great American Smokeout provides an opportunity to take that first step. Here are some tips for quitting:

• Set a Quit Date: Choose a date and stick to it.
• Develop a Quit Plan: Identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and seek support from friends, family, or a healthcare professional.
• Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): NRT products, such as nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges, can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
• Consider Medication: Consult with your doctor. Prescription medications can be effective in helping people quit smoking.
• Seek Professional Help: A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice and support.

By joining the Great American Smokeout and taking steps to quit smoking, you can improve your health, reduce your risk of serious diseases, and live a longer, healthier life.