November 13, 2000

Contact: Bonnie Widerburg, (971) 673-1282

Great American Smokeout: a great time to quit tobacco

Nov. 16 is the Great American Smokeout. That brings a reminder from public health officials that the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line can help those who want to stop smoking.

The Great American Smokeout comes only days after state officials announced major declines in tobacco use among Oregon adults and teens over the past four years. Now, others who want to quit are reminded to plan ahead and call the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line now.

"Oregon's tobacco prevention program is saving many lives and dollars, but there are still thousands of smokers ready to quit who need help," says Nancy Clarke, manager of Oregon's Quit Line of the Department of Human Services. "The Great American Smokeout offers an opportunity for these folks to take action by calling the Quit Line today."

The number to call is: 1-877-270-STOP (English), 1-877-2NO FUME (Spanish), or 1-877-777-6534 (TTY). The Quit Line operates from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.

"We look forward to helping those who want to stop smoking," says Clarke. "In fact, we believe that Oregon's recent reductions in tobacco use are partly because of the success of the Quit Line."

Three out of four smokers would like to quit tobacco, according to researchers at the Health Services. This year's Great American Smokeout, sponsored by the American Cancer Society, is the nation's premier event to encourage those smokers to take the opportunity to quit.

Oregon's Tobacco Prevention and Education Program is a comprehensive effort to reduce the use of tobacco and exposure to secondhand smoke. It includes programs in local communities, schools, businesses, media and special populations. The program is funded by a tobacco-tax increase approved by voters in 1996. Ten percent of the new revenue is allocated to tobacco-use prevention and reduction. The Oregon Quit Line, a toll-free telephone call, is a cessation counseling service available to Oregonians.