The City of Jacksonville issued a public health advisory ahead of the Great American Smokeout on November 20, highlighting the health benefits associated with ending tobacco use. According to the city's announcement, quitting smoking offers immediate benefits for heart and lung health. Smokers who quit may see lower blood pressure and reduced risks of heart disease and stroke.
Smoking is associated with cancers, lung disease, heart disease, low birth weight, miscarriage, type 2 diabetes, erectile dysfunction, and other chronic health conditions. Quitting can significantly improve both the quality and length of life.
For additional support, Smokefree.gov provides a free mobile app to help manage cravings in real time. The American Lung Association offers the Freedom From Smoking program, which includes in-person meetings, and the National Quit Line at 1-800-QUIT-NOW is available for phone-based assistance.
