The Great American Smokeout®: Taking a Breath Towards a Healthier Future

Every year, on the third Thursday of November, individuals across the United States come together to observe The Great American Smokeout. This important event is about quitting smoking and raising awareness of the hazards associated with tobacco use and the importance of lung health. On this occasion, we want to highlight the significance of The Great American Smokeout® and how Erlanger, a leading healthcare institution, is making strides in lung care with Ion – a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy platform for minimally invasive lung biopsy.

The Great American Smokeout, initiated by the American Cancer Society, has been observed since 1977. It serves as a reminder to all smokers that there is no better time to quit than today. Smoking is the most significant preventable cause of disease and premature death worldwide. It is responsible for more than 480,000 deaths in the United States each year, and millions more suffer from smoking-related illnesses. This day encourages smokers to begin their journey towards a smoke-free life.

Quitting Smoking

One of the significant reasons to quit smoking is to safeguard your lung health. Smoking damages the lungs and can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and numerous other respiratory conditions. With The Great American Smokeout, it’s crucial to understand that quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk of developing these life-threatening diseases.

How Erlanger Can Help You

In the fight against smoking-related diseases, Erlanger’s mission is to provide the best services and technology to those in the Chattanooga community. The Ion system is a revolutionary tool that allows for precise diagnosis and treatment of lung conditions. This innovative technology utilizes advanced robotics and navigation to reach even the most challenging lung areas, ensuring early detection and intervention for lung diseases.

Ion enables pulmonologists at Erlanger to perform minimally invasive procedures with enhanced accuracy, reducing patient discomfort and recovery time. This breakthrough in bronchoscopy empowers healthcare professionals to diagnose lung cancer at earlier stages when it is more treatable, ultimately saving lives.

As we observe The Great American Smokeout, let’s take a moment to reflect on the importance of our lung health and the impact of smoking on our lives. If you or a loved one need a pulmonologist, don’t hesitate to contact Erlanger. By seeking professional help and support, you can take a significant step toward a smoke-free and healthier future.