Make the move: Why now is the perfect time to quit tobacco

With the cost of tobacco products increasing in the State of Indiana on July 1st, many may see this moment as an ideal opportunity to consider quitting tobacco. Whether motivated by health, financial goals, or the desire for a fresh start, Hoosiers across the state are being encouraged to take advantage of the many free and effective tools available to support their journey toward a tobacco-free life.

Support systems and evidence-based programs are in place to help make quitting more attainable than ever. “We are dedicated to helping individuals who want to quit tobacco use by providing them with the necessary support and tools to succeed,” said Annette Haining, Tobacco Education Coordinator for Marshall County. “Now is the time to make Indiana a healthier state, free from the burden of tobacco addiction.”

In 2023, 14.5%, or about 750,000 Hoosier adults, reported currently smoking, above the national average of 12.1%. Encouragingly, more than one-third of Indiana adults who smoke or vape reported making a quit attempt in the past year.

“There has never been a better time to quit,” said Haining. “We must come together as a state to reduce tobacco use and support one another in this effort to help those who are ready to quit.”

In addition to helping adults quit, tobacco tax increases are one of the most effective tools to prevent youth tobacco use. As prices rise, fewer young people start using tobacco products. Indiana’s new tax increase is expected to prevent more than 10,000 youth from becoming adults who smoke and reduce the number of young adults who smoke by more than 2,200.

The initiative provides clear pathways for Hoosiers seeking help to quit:

· Consulting their healthcare provider for medical advice on cessation

· Quit Now Indiana –Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669), text READY to 34191, or visit QuitNowIndiana.com to receive guidance from tobacco cessation coaches

· Engaging with local tobacco prevention coalitions for additional resources

Programs like Quit Now Indiana are vital for providing essential cessation resources to Hoosiers. In 2024, Quit Now Indiana served over 8,400 Hoosiers, which is a return on investment of nearly $12 million among those who successfully quit. For every $1 spent on Quit Now Indiana, the state saves nearly $10.

“Tobacco addiction is a serious challenge, but with the right support, Hoosiers can take charge of their health and successfully quit,” said Haining.

Indiana has made progress in reducing smoking rates over time, but tobacco use still places a heavy burden on public and economic health. Healthcare costs in Indiana directly caused by smoking are estimated at $3.4 billion annually.

With strong statewide efforts and continued focus on prevention and cessation, health officials remain optimistic that more Hoosiers will take this critical step toward a tobacco-free lifestyle.