Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) is encouraging both smokers and individuals who use vaping devices to quit using these products in recognition of the Great American Smokeout (GASO). The Great American Smokeout, November 20, 2025, is a nationally recognized day dedicated to encouraging individuals who use tobacco and nicotine products to begin their quitting journey.
For the 2025 GASO, FCPH will host two ‘Turn-In’ events. These events are opportunities for individuals to bring tobacco or nicotine products to a specified location, turn them in to FCPH staff and complete a quitting readiness assessment. ‘Turn-In’ events will take place on Wednesday, November 19, noon to 7:00 p.m., at West Acres Mall in the Food Court area, and on Thursday, November 20, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Fargo Cass Public Health.
"We’re here to help you take that first step toward quitting”, says Doreen Odera, Tobacco Prevention Coordinator for FCPH. “Our Break Away from Nicotine program is tailored to each individual and customized to fit their needs because we know every quitting journey looks different. Even if someone isn’t ready to quit, we would welcome an opportunity to talk about what their path might look like."
Every year, around 1,000 North Dakotans die from commercial tobacco use. Quitting commercial tobacco and nicotine is one of the best steps for improving health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, cancer, heart disease and diabetes. In addition to the negative physical health effects of tobacco use, nicotine impacts mental health by altering chemicals in the brain, which can impact emotional regulation and mood.
With an adult smoking rate of 13.4%, North Dakota exceeds the national average of 10.8%, according to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. With support from FCPH, healthcare providers, pharmacists or NDQuits, individuals can receive tailored quit plans and gain access to a wealth of tools and resources to increase their chances of success. Services include personal coaching and access to medications to improve the rate of success. NDQuits and the FCPH Break Away from Nicotine (BAN) program provide free nicotine replacement therapy to participants who qualify.
To learn more about enrolling in the BAN program, contact Doreen at 701.241.8195. For additional help with quitting, visit NDQuits.