There's no time like the present to quit smoking.

After losing my father to smoking at a very young age, I am fully aware of the devastating impact that premature death from smoking can have on a family.  As the leading cause of preventable death and disease in the U.S., tobacco use shortens the life span of a smoker by more than ten years, according to CDC statistics. What's more, 1,000 children become regular smokers each day, adding to this horrible statistic. 

As we approach the Great American Smokeout, sponsored by the American Cancer Society,   and the quit season that continues through the arrival of the New Year, we are reminded that nearly 70 percent of smokers nationwide want to quit. We know that quitting is not an easy task and few smokers are successful on the first try.  It often takes several times for a smoker to quit for good and many don't realize they are battling both a physical and psychological addiction.  There is no time like the present to address their needs and focus on helping those interested in overcoming their addiction to cigarettes.

Highlighting access and availability to resources and tools that help smokers quit needs to be a primary focus for the tobacco control community.  Luckily, tools do exist including state quit lines, online services, telephone counseling, and over-the-counter cessation medications, such as therapeutic nicotine, available at retail outlets across the country.  Smokers should seek help from products, programs, and services that are proven to boost one's chances of succeeding.  It is also beneficial for smokers to talk with their doctor to track their progress and develop a personalized plan.  Finally, it is up to us to continue to expand and develop new, innovative ways that are safe and effective in helping smokers quit. 

Friends and family play such a crucial role in helping a loved one quit.  It is important for smokers to find a support system in their lives - people who provide encouragement and praise along the journey, and people to celebrate with when they have successfully quit.

There is not a day that goes by that I don't regret the lost years with my father.  But, in my current role, I am privileged to help in this fight against the tobacco epidemic each day.  There is much that we can do for those who want to quit and it is my hope that we can achieve the goal of reducing and eventually eliminating the death and disease that is caused by tobacco in this country.