Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) encourages residents to ditch the dip and quit the use of smokeless tobacco during ‘Through with Chew Week’, Feb. 19 - 25. Additionally, smokeless tobacco users are encouraged to make the Great American Spit Out, Feb. 23, their designated quit date. Setting a quit date greatly improves a tobacco user’s chance at success.
“Quitting tobacco is a process but we’re here to help. Today is the perfect time to take your first step to kick dip, snus, or chew to the curb. Quitting smokeless tobacco now reduces the risk of cancer, heart disease, birth defects, and even death,” said Annabel DuFault, FCPH Tobacco Prevention Coordinator. “Our goal during ‘Through with Chew Week’ is two-fold: educate the community about the dangers of smokeless tobacco and provide those who want to quit with the resources and support to do so successfully.”
Chewing tobacco is not a safe alternative to other forms of tobacco. On average, chew products deliver a higher dose of nicotine than cigarettes, making the product very addictive. Smokeless tobacco contains at least 28 dangerous chemicals that have been found to cause cancer in the mouth, esophagus, and pancreas. Additionally, smokeless tobacco can cause gum disease, heart disease, and mouth sores. “Through with Chew Week” is a great opportunity to take action against tobacco use, the leading cause of preventable death and disease in North Dakota.
The most effective way to quit any tobacco use is to make a quit plan. FCPH can help by providing resources and support to those who are ready to quit. In addition, the statewide tobacco cessation program, NDQuits, offers free support and coaching through phone and web programs.
Quick facts:
• To learn about local tobacco prevention and cessation resources, call 701.241.8576.
• For additional help with quitting smokeless tobacco, visit https://ndquits.health.nd.gov/ .