Central ND News

Quit Week is set to return to North Dakota from June 8-14, 2025. Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health, in collaboration with Tobacco Free North Dakota and North Dakota Health and Human Services, encourages residents to take steps towards quitting smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, or using nicotine pouches. This marks the sixth year of the initiative aimed at helping individuals in the state begin their journey to a tobacco-free life.

Participants are encouraged to set a quit date during the week and utilize available resources. Support is accessible through NDQuits, healthcare providers, pharmacists, and Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health. Those who qualify can receive personalized coaching, quit planning assistance, and free nicotine replacement therapies such as patches, gum, or lozenges.

"Every quit attempt is a step toward better health. Quit Week is a reminder that no matter where you are in your journey, support is available," said Alexis Raymond, a tobacco prevention specialist with Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health Unit. "This is your chance to take back control and invest in a future that's tobacco-free."

Raymond added: "Deciding to quit isn't easy — but it's one of the most powerful decisions you can make for yourself. During Quit Week, we're here to stand with you and connect you to the tools you need to succeed."

Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in North Dakota, contributing to approximately 1,000 deaths annually and incurring over $379 million in healthcare costs. Products like cigarettes, vaping devices, chewing tobacco, and nicotine pouches pose significant health risks including cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions.

Despite these risks, 15% of adults in North Dakota continue smoking. The ongoing community efforts led by Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health alongside Tobacco Free North Dakota and NDQuits aim to support individuals breaking free from nicotine addiction for healthier lives.

For more information or assistance on starting a quit journey contact Sue Kahler at 701-355-1597; visit NDQuits; or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.