Tobacco usage may have once seemed a cultural norm, but as awareness grows, so does the
understanding of its detrimental effects. Advocating against tobacco is not just about
highlighting its dangers; it is about empowering individuals to reclaim control over their health
and futures. Tobacco is a plant native to the Americas and belongs to the Nicotiana genus. It is
primarily cultivated for its leaves which contain nicotine, an addictive stimulant. Tobacco use is
a cause or risk factor for many deadly diseases, especially those affecting the heart, liver, and
lungs, as well as many cancers.
Each year, in the United States alone, there are 480,000 deaths due to tobacco-related illness.
This is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the impact of tobacco use in our country. In
2008, the World Health Organization named tobacco use as the world’s single greatest
preventable cause of death. For each death caused by tobacco, there are at least five people living
with a serious tobacco related illness. According to County Health Rankings, in 2023, 23% of
adults in Wayne County were cigarette smokers, compared to 16% of adults in Georgia and 16%
of adults in the U.S.
Quitting tobacco can be challenging, but it’s achievable. Here are a few steps to help you on
your journey to becoming tobacco free:
1. Identify your triggers: Recognize the situations, emotions, or activities that prompt you to
use tobacco. Understanding your triggers can help you develop strategies to cope with
cravings effectively.
2. Seek the support you need while quitting: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups
for encouragement and guidance. Having someone to lean on during tough times can
make a significant difference in your quitting journey.
3. Consider Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Talk to your healthcare provider about
using NRT products such as patches, gum, or lozenges. These can help alleviate
withdrawal symptoms and cravings as you gradually reduce your nicotine intake.
By advocating against tobacco, we are championing a brighter, healthier future for ourselves
and our loved ones. Embark on a journey to reclaim your health and freedom! Today, we invite
you to take the courageous step towards a tobacco free life. You are not alone in this journey!
There is a community of support ready to uplift and guide you every step of the way.
The Wayne County Recovery Coalition (WCRC), Anchored, and Share Health Southeast
Georgia are resources available to you. For more information about WCRC, visit our website at
https://waynecountyrecovery.com/ or contact our Project Coordinator, Renee Bolin, at
reneebolin@waynecountyrecovery.com.