More than two dozen health organizations are promoting the physical benefits found soon after quitting smoking.
They did so Wednesday in announcing the first Kick It, Kentucky week.
Health advocates reminded attendees at the Lexington event more adults in Kentucky smoke than any other state. Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky CEO Ben Chandler says the single most effective way to improve the state’s overall health is to reduce the smoking rate.
“Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve just got to do it. We’ve got to do it. It’s a crisis and the need is dire” said Chandler.
Cheryl Weiss says she smoked 20 years before quitting in March right before her 36th birthday. The Lexington woman says she had to break with friends who smoke.
“I had to kind of back away from social engagements for a few weeks before I found myself mentally strong enough to reenter the situation or the scenario and not have the temptation to smoke,” said Weiss.
Weiss credits an eight week smoking cessation program for her success in quitting.
In addition to talking about benefits of smoking cessation, posters detailing the quick benefits of quitting are being placed in doctors’ waiting rooms, community buildings, and workplaces.
