The third Thursday of November each year is the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout, a day to encourage smokers to quit smoking tobacco and start the journey toward a smoke-free life. This year’s Smokeout takes place on November 19. It’s a great day to plan to quit smoking and commit to a healthy, smoke-free life.
Smoking remains the single largest preventable cause of disease, disability, and premature death in the United States. It is estimated that 34.2 million adults in the United States currently smoke cigarettes. No matter your age, quitting smoking results in both immediate and long-term health benefits. By quitting – even for 1 day – smokers take an important step toward a healthier life and a reduced risk of smoking-related diseases.
Quitting isn’t easy -- support and preventive health services are available. All Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plans offer 100 percent coverage to help you quit once and for all. FEHB tobacco cessation benefits cover four tobacco cessation counseling sessions for up to two quit attempts per year. Your Component Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is also available to support you in your smoking cessation plan. If you need any resources, free and supportive counseling, or to answer your confidential questions, contact your Component EAP or send an email to the DHS Work-Life team at worklife@hq.dhs.gov.
Use this year’s Great American Smokeout to commit to quit smoking or help a loved one who is trying to quit.