By Payton Tholstrup

The North Central Kansas Medical Center and the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) partners invites the public to participate in the Great American Smokeout on November 21st by pledging to go “Cold Turkey” for 24 hours from tobacco and nicotine products.

The CHNA committee identified tobacco use as one of the most pressing health issues in Cloud County. The committee is dedicated to supporting residents in reducing and quitting tobacco.

“The health benefits of quitting smoking start immediately. Within just 20 minutes of your last cigarette, your heart rate and blood pressure begin to drop. In just a few days, carbon monoxide levels in your blood normalize, and within two weeks to three months, both circulation and lung function improve,” said Denise Baumann.

To participate, individuals who smoke, vape, or chew tobacco products are encouraged to take the 24-hour pledge on November 21st. Pledge forms can be found at the hospital and online and can be submitted in person or via email by Friday, November 22nd by 5:00 p.m.

Pledge forms will also be distributed to students in local elementary schools to encourage family participation in this event. One pledge will be selected on November 25th in a drawing, with the winner receiving a gift basket.

For more information, contact Denise Baumann or Pam Campbell at 785-243-1234 or visit www.nckmed.com