Commit to quit Published Nov. 22, 2011 By Nestoria Lopez-Wright Health and Wellness Center MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The American Cancer Society held their 36th Annual Great American Smokeout Nov. 17. On this day, smokers were encouraged to quit tobacco use and ultimately take an important step toward a healthier lifestyle and reduce their risk for cancer --quitting for 24 hours can lead to quitting for a lifetime. Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the US, yet more than 45 million Americans still smoke cigarettes. Countless studies have reinforced the detrimental effect tobacco use has on warfighting competence, including physical and mental fitness. The use of these products has been shown to reduce lung capacity and decrease night vision. Tobacco use is also associated with higher levels of impotence and infertility. "Minot smokers are more vulnerable to frostbite from winter temperatures a well as to bronchitis and airway irritation from cold, dry air," said Lt. Col. Todd Huhn, 5th Medical Group aerospace medicine chief. Although quitting cold turkey isn't easy, here at Minot AFB, over 30 Airmen and their dependents took the pledge to quit. As a reward for that pledge, they were entered into a drawing to win a free turkey. The 5th MDG's Health and Wellness Center, located at the McAdoo Sport's and Fitness Center, gave away six turkeys to those lucky winners just in time for the holidays. The winners were Airman 1st Class Kory Kotrous 5th Maintenance Squadron, Staff Sgt. Kenneth Green, 5th MXS, Tech. Sgt. Chris Nelson, 5th Civil Engineer Squadron, Serena McCormick, Rebecca Merrill and Nancy Brown. There is no need to wait until next year to take the pledge to quit. The HAWC has a variety of educational and support classes to help Airmen obtain their smoke and tobacco-free goals. This counseling is free to all military beneficiaries and Department of Defense civilians. Those interested in starting a program may call 723-2991 to register. Medications may also be available to assist tobacco users in quitting. To verify eligibility for these medications, one should make an appointment with their Primary Care Manager by calling 723-5633. And as an added benefit for those who complete the programs, the 5th Medical Group offers a free teeth whitening service through the Dental Clinic. HAWC sponsored classes: --FRESH START: 4-session program every Wednesday 1100-2030 --BABY AND ME TABACCO CESSATION: 4-session Program every Monday 1100-2030 Web-based Classes: --"Freedom from Smoking" - American Lung Association, www.lungusa.org --"Make Everyone Proud" - DOD-sponsored site, www.ucanquit2.org QUITLINE: North Dakota Tobacco Quit Line 24-hr Counselor: 1-800-QUIT NOW Contact the HAWC at 723-2991 for information on the tobacco cessation options available and to find out which one is right for you.