Great American Smokeout History

The Great American Smokeout seeks to encourage smokers to quit or plan to quit smoking. Smoking is a habit involving the consumption of tobacco smoke, which has been shown to cause a variety of cancers, most notably lung and mouth cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of Cancer death in the United States and the most preventable type of cancer worldwide.

The Great American Smokeout is promoted by the American Cancer Society and is held on the third Thursday of November each year in an effort to reduce cases of preventable cancers, reduce secondhand smoke and improve the health of all Americans.

Top 10 Facts for Great American Smokeout in 2026

• The American Cancer Society designates the Great American Smokeout as a strategic opportunity for tobacco users to create a personalized quit plan and access vital cessation resources.
• Public health organizations often emphasize the 2026 focus on addressing the rising prevalence of e-cigarette and nicotine pouch usage among younger demographics alongside traditional combustible tobacco products.
• This national movement leverages the collective power of community support, encouraging participants to seek out counseling, nicotine replacement therapies, or digital support tools to increase their chances of long-term success.
• Healthcare providers frequently use this observance to highlight the immediate physiological benefits of quitting, such as lowered heart rate and improved carbon monoxide levels in the blood within the first 24 hours.
• The initiative serves as a primary driver for corporate wellness programs, where many employers launch incentives or smoking cessation workshops to foster healthier workplace environments.
• Research consistently demonstrates that smokers who utilize professional support services combined with behavioral therapy are significantly more likely to remain tobacco-free compared to those who attempt to quit 'cold turkey.'
• The Great American Smokeout is widely recognized as a catalyst for state-level policy discussions regarding tobacco tax increases, smoke-free legislation, and funding for public health education.
• Digital advocacy campaigns during the event often highlight the documentary Big Tobacco: The Hidden History to educate the public on the industry tactics that have historically complicated cessation efforts.
• Participation in the event provides a platform for former smokers to share their recovery journeys, serving as peer-to-peer inspiration for those currently navigating the physical and psychological challenges of nicotine withdrawal.
• The American Cancer Society maintains a permanent infrastructure of quitlines and online communities that remain available throughout the year, reinforcing the message that the journey to becoming smoke-free is a continuous process rather than a single-day event.

In the News and Trending for Great American Smokeout

Top things to do for Great American Smokeout

• If you are a smoker, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for support in quitting. You can also get help from organizations like smokefree.gov and UCanQuit2.
• Organize a sporting event like soccer or softball as a way to have fun and otherwise help smokers take their minds off of smoking.
• Talk to someone you know who smokes and challenge them to quit for the day.
• Give out sugarless gum to otherwise smokers as a friendly gesture to promote an alternative.
• Watch movies and documentaries that aim to uncover the tobacco industry and impact of tobacco addictions:
  1) The Insider (1999)
  2) Addiction Incorporated (2011)
  3) Dying for a Smoke (1992)
  4) Smoke & Mirrors: A History of Denial (2000)