CDC Kicks Off a Stop Smoking Campaign Today

(KNSI) – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention kicks off its “Tips From Former Smokers” campaign today.

The CDC’s Diane Beistle says research shows the campaign works.

“We know that from 2012 to 2018, more than 16 million people tried to quit as a result of the campaign, and a million people have quit for good.”

The goal of the campaign, now in its tenth year, is to motivate people to quit smoking as early as possible. Beistle says the CDC achieves this goal by showing “real people living with the devastating effects of smoking-related disease and disability.”

Spokesperson Geri Madison has COPD due to smoking and says she’s happy to inspire others to quit just like she did, including two girlfriends who quit because of the campaign. She said it was “very gratifying to know that it was because of me that they decided to quit.”

Madison has a tip for those who want to stop smoking.

“Don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t succeed the first time. Don’t quit quitting.”

St. Cloud-based CentraCare has 11 locations for tobacco treatment with providers who have special training in that area. It also addresses the physical, mental, and social ties to nicotine use and uses expert care in managing and adjusting medications like nicotine replacement therapies to make sure proper doses are given while the drug leaves your body. Virtual and phone visits are available. Learn more by clicking here.