KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON -- The second annual Gay American SmokeOut is set for November 18, 1999. Gay men, lesbians, and bisexual and transgendered people who smoke are urged to quit and improve their health (as well as the health of those around them) by remaining smoke free. Smokers may call (206) 296-7613 for a free "Quit Kit" from Public Health or request one online by clicking here.

"Smoking tobacco causes disease and early death, all of which is preventable," said Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health -Seattle & King County. "I challenge all sexual minorities who smoke to quit on November 18 and to stay smoke free."

The Gay American SmokeOut -- sponsored by Public Health - Seattle & King County, the American Cancer Society, the Lesbian Resource Center, The Pink Zone, Seattle Lesbian Cancer Project and Gay City Health Project-- is a strategy to reduce the high smoking rate among the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community. The smoking rate among these groups is currently twice that of the general population.

Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death in Seattle and King County. Smokers have higher levels of death rates for over 20 major illnesses and injuries. The major smoking-related killers are cancer, non-cancer lung diseases (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and heart disease and stroke. The rate for cervical cancer among smokers is 200% greater than that of non-smokers. In addition, smoking tobacco further weakens the immune system of HIV infected persons.

Anyone having questions about smoking-related issues or the Gay American SmokeOut is invited to call Public Health's Tobacco Prevention Program at (206) 296-7613 or the American Cancer Society (425) 869-5588.

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