Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages Community to Call it Quits

November 20, 2025
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.

Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages Community to Call it Quits
The Great American Smoke out is November 20

WARRENTON, Va. –Smoking remains the single largest preventable cause of death and disease in the nation, according to the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Tobacco Control Program. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District says the annual Great American Smoke out on November 20 is the perfect time to quit.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. More people, both men and women, in the United States die from lung cancer than any other type of cancer according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for approximately 85% of all cases.

“On November 20, the Great American Smoke‑Out offers a powerful moment for each of us to choose health over habit,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “At the Rappahannock‑Rapidan Health District, we stand ready to support anyone ready to take that step, because quitting smoking is one of the great gifts you can give yourself and your community.”

The desire for a healthier, smoke-free life is the first step. Some benefits of quitting include:

  • Improves health status and enhances quality of life.
  • Reduces the risk of premature death and can years to life expectancy.
  • Reduces the risk for many adverse health effects.
  • Reduces financial burden of those who smoke.
  • Benefits people already diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer, and poor reproductive health outcomes.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District has several resources to help guide you or a loved one in quitting:

Quitting isn’t easy. Statistics show that most people make multiple attempts to quit. These tools and strategies can help you make the important change.

  • Give yourself time. You don’t have to stop smoking in one day. It’s a journey.
  • Have a plan. Quit Now Virginia can help you make a plan. It’s free to all Virginians 13 and older.
  • Seek support. Share your story and your goals with friends and family. Look for local or online support groups.
  • Talk to your doctor. Prescription medications may be available to help you quit for good.

Quit Now Virginia is a statewide service for those who want to quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes, or vapes. Clients can receive one-on-one coaching sessions by phone, chat, or text, as well as group coaching. Virginia tobacco and nicotine users interested in quitting their addiction can contact Quit Now Virginia at 1-800-Quit Now (1-800-784-8669) or at quitnowvirginia.org.

For more assistance, contact The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org.

# # #