DPH Highlights Importance of Quitting During the Great American Smokeout and National Diabetes Awareness Month

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Nov. 20, 2024

COLUMBIA, S.C. — In observance of National Diabetes Awareness Month in November and the Great American Smokeout (GASO) on Nov. 21, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is reminding residents about the connection between smoking and diabetes.  

Studies show that, regardless of family history, smoking can cause type 2 diabetes. Also, the nicotine found in commercial tobacco products like cigarettes and vapes can make diabetes worse. Quitting tobacco can prevent increased risk of amputation, heart disease, and insulin resistance in people living with type 2 diabetes. 

“The shared observance of Great American Smokeout and National Diabetes Awareness Month is fitting,” said Kristian Myers, interim director for DPH’s Diabetes and Heart Disease Management Section. “The nicotine found in tobacco products like cigarettes and vapes raises your blood sugar. We now know that smoking increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 30 to 40%.”  

Nicotine causes insulin resistance, which is a key factor in developing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, harmful chemicals in tobacco products can contribute to chronic inflammation, which increases the risk of developing diabetes and increases the risk of complications from diabetes. People who have diabetes and who also smoke are more likely to have difficulty controlling blood sugar and are at greater risk of kidney failure, stroke and leg or foot infections. 

DPH encourages people who use tobacco products to quit, or to practice a “mini quit” during the Great American Smokeout Nov. 21. This observance offers a chance to join thousands of people nationwide as they try to break their nicotine addiction and quit tobacco products for good.  

To increase your chances of quitting successfully, consider these tips: 

• Set a quit date.  
• Tell friends and family for support.  
• Practice quitting during the Great American Smokeout Nov. 21. 
• Find free, evidence-based quit support from the SC Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW). 
• Be patient with yourself and don’t give up. Every try counts!     

Learn more about diabetes management by visiting the DPH website. For more information on the impact of tobacco use on diabetes, visit the CDC’s Smoking and Diabetes webpage. Visit DPH’S tobacco cessation webpage to find free quit support options.  

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