Tobacco
Tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable illness and death in Kentucky, but you don’t have to face it alone. With a range of free resources and support, Kentucky is here to help you quit smoking or vaping and live a healthier, tobacco-free life.
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QUIT NOW: TOBACCO CESSATION
Tobacco Cessation
Quitting tobacco can significantly improve your health and quality of life. Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease in the United States. In Kentucky, the statistics are particularly concerning, with a high prevalence of tobacco use and related health issues. However, Kentucky offers a range of resources and support to help individuals quit smoking or using tobacco products, making it easier than ever to take the first step toward a healthier life.
Why Quit Tobacco?
Health Risks: Kentucky ranks among the top states for tobacco-related health problems. According to the CDC, Kentucky has the second-highest smoking rate in the country, with over 25% of adults still smoking. This is well above the national average of about 14%.
Impact on Public Health: Smoking-related diseases are a significant burden on Kentuckians. It is estimated that nearly 8,000 Kentuckians die each year from smoking-related illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, and various cancers. Additionally, smoking contributes to nearly $2 billion in healthcare costs annually for the state.
Youth and Vaping: Vaping is also on the rise in Kentucky, especially among young people. In 2020, 21% of high school students in Kentucky reported using e-cigarettes, a concerning trend that can lead to nicotine addiction and other health complications.
RESOURCES & SUPPORT
The Benefits of Quitting
Immediate Health Benefits: The positive effects of quitting start almost immediately. Within 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure drop. After 12 hours, carbon monoxide levels in your blood return to normal. Within 2 to 3 weeks, lung function improves, and circulation gets better. By quitting, you dramatically reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
Long-Term Health Improvements: After 1 year, the risk of heart disease is cut in half. By the 5-year mark, your risk of stroke can decrease to that of a non-smoker, and after 10 years, your risk of lung cancer drops significantly.
Quality of Life: Quitting not only improves your health but also enhances your quality of life. Many former smokers report increased energy, better breathing, and a noticeable improvement in their sense of taste and smell.
QUIT NOW: TOBACCO CESSATION
Kentucky's Commitment to Tobacco-Free Lives
Kentucky’s Tobacco Cessation Programs are designed to help individuals at all stages of their quit journey, whether they are just thinking about quitting or have already started. With the support of QuitNow Kentucky and other services, you don’t have to face the challenge alone.
By taking advantage of these programs, you can join thousands of Kentuckians who have successfully quit smoking and vaping, improving their health and reducing the long-term risks associated with tobacco use.
Get started today. Take the first step toward a healthier, tobacco-free life and make the change that will benefit you and those around you for years to come.