thumb|A model cigarette featuring chemicals and additives to raise awareness of the dangers of smoking for the Great American Smokeout
The Great American Smokeout is an annual intervention event on the third Thursday of November by the American Cancer Society. Approximately 40 million American adults still smoke, and tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the country. The event challenges people to quit on that day, or use the day to make a plan to quit.
History
thumb|An informational booth for the Great American Smokeout
The first Great American Smokeout was held in San Francisco's Union Square on November 16, 1977. The event evolved from a series of smaller-scale initiatives. In 1970, in Randolph, Massachusetts, Arthur P. Mullaney suggested people give up cigarettes for a day and donate the money to a local high school. In 1974, a "Don't Smoke Day" (or "D-Day") was promoted by Lynn R. Smith of the Monticello Times in Monticello, Minnesota.
thumb|FDA leaflet about the Great American Smokeout
See also
- World No Tobacco Day
- No Smoking Day (UK)
References
External links
- American Cancer Society
- ACS Great American Smokeout page
- Tricare Management Activity/DoD Great American Smokeout page
- Prevention Partners Great American Smokeout page
- Happy Great American Smokeout Day