About 34 million U.S. adults still smoke cigarettes, and smoking remains the largest preventable cause of death and illness in the world. Smoking causes an estimated 480,000 deaths each year (about one out of every five).
While the national smoking rate has declined from about 42% in 1965 to 14% in 2019, the Fulton County rate is 23.3%, which is in the top five in New York state. Our youth smoking rate is lower, at 3.2% for grades 6-12, slightly below the national average.
Some people smoke more and suffer more from smoking-related cancer and other diseases. These include people who live in lower socioeconomic areas, those without college degrees, minority groups, LGBTQ+, and those with behavioral health conditions.
No matter your age or how long you have been smoking, quitting improves health. Giving up smoking is a journey, and while it can be extremely difficult, you can increase your chances of success with a good plan and lots of support. Getting help through counseling and medication can increase your chances of quitting.
Nov. 18 is the annual Great American Smoke Out. It is the perfect day to make a plan to quit. Maybe try and go smoke-free for the day. If you would like more information, the American Cancer Society has a help line, 1-800-227-2345.
For more about how you can help your community support a smoke-free lifestyle, Contact Tricia Terlecky, Community Engagement Coordinator, Advancing Tobacco Free Communities at Catholic Charities of Fulton and Montgomery Counties, at 518-842-4202 X3177.
Bonnie Peck
Johnstown
(The writer is director/project coordinator for the Glove City Coalition, Gloversville.)