Great American Smokeout

The Great American Smokeout is observed in the United States on the third Thursday of November. Organized by the American Cancer Society, the campaign encourages people who smoke to begin quitting or make a detailed plan to stop using tobacco.

History of the Great American Smokeout

The Great American Smokeout grew from community campaigns held during the 1970s. In 1976, the California Division of the American Cancer Society encouraged smokers to give up cigarettes for one day and donate the money they would have spent to a scholarship fund.

The American Cancer Society expanded the campaign nationwide in 1977. Since then, the Great American Smokeout has encouraged millions of people to consider quitting and has helped bring greater public attention to the health effects of smoking and secondhand smoke.

Quitting tobacco can be difficult because nicotine is highly addictive. Counseling, quitlines, support groups, and approved medications can help people manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms and improve their chances of quitting successfully.

Important Facts About the Great American Smokeout

• The Great American Smokeout is held on the third Thursday of November.
• Cigarette smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke cause more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States.
• Smoking can damage nearly every organ in the body.
• It increases the risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other serious conditions.
• Quitting smoking benefits health at any age, including for people who have smoked for many years.
• Counseling and approved medications can help people cope with nicotine withdrawal and cravings.
• People may need several attempts before they quit permanently, and a setback does not mean that future attempts will fail.

Ways to Observe the Great American Smokeout

Observe the Great American Smokeout by choosing a quit date, making a plan, removing tobacco products from your surroundings, and asking trusted people for support. A healthcare professional can explain suitable counseling and treatment options. People in the United States can also contact a free quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW for confidential assistance.

When Is the Great American Smokeout in 2026?

The Great American Smokeout is observed on the third Thursday of November each year.

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