Mark your calendars, the Great American Smoke Out is this Thursday, November 18.
South Carolina Health Department officials are sending out emails to nearby city and county employees each day as a reminder. The American Cancer Society sponsors the day each year to encourage smokers to use the date to quit, or make a plan to quit.
Horry County officials say the emails also mention services they're offering to help smokers quit, like a quitline and free nicotine replacement therapy.
"There's different things that you can do to make your attempt to quit a little easier, even though it one of the hardest things you'll ever have to do," said Jessica Piezzo, Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Studies have shown a smoker's lung function increases as early as two weeks after they quit.
This is the 35th year for the Great American Smokeout.
To get help from the Quitline, click here or call 1-800-QUIT NOW.
