[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 152 (Wednesday, November 16, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2374]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  STATEMENT ON THE 29TH ANNUAL AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY GREAT AMERICAN 
                                SMOKEOUT

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ALLYSON Y. SCHWARTZ

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 16, 2005

  Ms. SCHWARTZ of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, an estimated 45.4 million 
adults in the United States are smokers; with tobacco usage accounting 
for nearly one in five deaths in the United States. Only about 5 
percent of daily smokers who attempt to quit are successful for 3-12 
months. That is why the American Cancer Society has designated the 
third Thursday of November as the Great American Smokeout--a day for 
smokers to join in solidarity and collectively kick this fatal habit.
  The health consequences of smoking are grave. Smoking is the leading 
preventable cause of death in the United States. More than 170,000 
Americans will die of smoking-related cancers this year, including 
lung, mouth, kidney, stomach and cervix cancer. Moreover, smoking 
affects family, friends and loved ones.
  I applaud the American Cancer Society for all they do to eradicate 
smoking. Their local, state and national efforts help to discourage 
young people from taking up this deadly habit and the resources they 
provide have helped numerous smokers quit.
  The American Cancer Society is a worthy ally in our fight to improve 
American's health and safety. I commend the American Cancer Society on 
their 29th Great American Smokeout and for all they do to maintain the 
health and well-being of all Americans.

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