SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - The third Thursday in November is the National Great American Smokeout.
The American Cancer Society says about 94,000 South Dakotans smoke, that's about 15 percent of the state's adult population.
Radiation Oncologist with Sanford Health, Dr. Steve McGraw says smoking is responsible for one in three cancer deaths and one in five deaths from all causes. McGraw says each year there are over 400,000 deaths related to smoking in our country. He says in South Dakota there are 450 deaths a year related to tobacco.
McGraw says smoking and using tobacco products puts you at a higher risk for heart disease and over 15 kinds of cancer.
Smokers are most successful in kicking the habit when they have support including nicotine replacement products, counseling, support groups, prescription medicine and encouragement from friends and neighbors.
South Dakota's smoking cessation hot line is 1-866-S-D-QUITS.