The American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout is today. When the first Smokeout was held in 1977, no one could have guessed it would spark a movement that would lead to smoke-free laws from California to New York City. Now for the 2004 Smokeout, the Society is calling on smokers throughout Valdosta-Lowndes County to go smoke-free for the day, and to consider giving up for good.

Even though smoking rates have dropped in the 32 years since the first Great American Smokeout, tobacco continues to be a major cancer killer.

Smoking causes many cancers besides lung cancer. It is a major cause of cancers of the mouth, larynx, pharynx, esophagus, kidney, bladder, pancreas, and cervix and has more recently been associated with colorectal cancer, myeloid leukemia as well as cancers of the liver, stomach and nasal sinuses.

Secondhand smoke contains more than 4,000 substances, more than 40 of which are known or suspected to cause cancer in humans and animals.

Only about 5 percent of everyday smokers are able to quit and maintain abstinence for a year, pointing to the importance of repeated attempts, multiple approaches and ongoing support.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.

Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has offices in communities across the United States, involving millions of volunteers across the United States.

If you smoke, today is a day to put them out. Just try it for a day. Maybe it will be the first day of the rest of a smoke-free life.