Health District Urges Residents to go Smoke-Free for Great American Smokeout

Washoe County adults currently smoke at a rate higher than the national average

Reno, Nev. Nov. 21, 2019 – The Washoe County Health District encourages tobacco users to participate in the Great American Smokeout today, which is an opportunity for smokers and vapers to pledge to go smoke-free, even if it’s just for one day. 

The one-day challenge can lead to a long-term plan to quit for good. The Health District website has cessation resources to help people quit using tobacco, as well as information about e-cigarettes and avoiding secondhand smoke.

“Today is a perfect opportunity to quit using tobacco products,” said Kevin Dick, Washoe County District Health Officer. “The risks of tobacco-related products continues to increase. Now with the vaping epidemic growing, people need to understand the consequences of using these products and the Great American Smokeout is a perfect opportunity to quit.”

Since 1976, the Great American Smokeout has helped motivate people to quit smoking. While smoking rates have declined, 15.2% of Washoe County adults currently smoke, which is higher that the U.S. rate of 14%. 

While everyone has a different reason for quitting tobacco (loved ones, health, or saving money), most will need a little assistance in their journey to becoming a non-smoker. Free help is available.

The Nevada Tobacco Users’ Helpline is a free resource for those that smoke cigarettes, use chewing tobacco, or e-cigarettes. Anyone who calls 1-800-QUIT-NOW can speak to a professional, licensed counselor for confidential assistance in both English and Spanish. More information can be located at www.NevadaTobaccoQuitline.com.  

Baby and Me – Tobacco Free is a program offered by the Washoe County Health District specifically to help pregnant women and their partners quit smoking and stay quit after the baby is born. Quitting smoking improves the short and long-term health outcomes for both the baby and mom. Those interested in the program should call 775-328-2480. 

The Washoe County Health District has jurisdiction over all public health matters in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County through the policy-making Washoe County District Board of Health. The District consists of five divisions: Administrative Health Services, Air Quality Management, Community and Clinical Health Services, Environmental Health Services and Epidemiology & Public Health Preparedness. More info can be found here.