Tobacco is the leading cause of death

I'd like to remind your readers that Thursday, Nov. 19 marks the American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout a day that encourages smokers to quit and non-smokers not to start. Tobacco remains the leading cause of death nationwide, and accounts for one out of every three cancer deaths in California every year.
And to the ex-smokers in our community; congratulations on your success in living a tobacco-free life! You have greatly reduced your risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease and lung disease not to mention reducing your community's exposure to the hazards of second-hand smoke.
If you know someone who smokes and is interested in quitting, Great American Smokeout is the perfect time to remind them that the American Cancer Society has developed resources such as cancer.org/smokeout and the toll-free number, 1-800-227-2345. Both are accessible 24/7 to help smokers manage a plan to quit. And if you're interested in ensuring that your community is smoke-free, get involved in American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) at acscan.org. In addition, the St. Helena Center for Health offers a residential Smoke-Free Life Program in a supportive, smoke-free environment.