GRAND FORKS — It’s Quit Week in North Dakota, and Grand Forks Public Health and statewide partners are encouraging residents to take steps to quit vapes, smoking, chew or nicotine pouches.

Through the week of June 8-14, people are recommended to set a “quit date,” the release said, and access the available resources to help them quit. NDQuits, local health care providers, pharmacists and GFPH were listed as available support resources. Those who qualify also have access to personalized coaching, quit planning and free nicotine replacement therapy, which can include patches, gums or lozenges.

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“Every quit attempt is a step toward better health,” said Sarah Odegard, a registered nurse and tobacco treatment specialist at GFPH. “Quit Week is a reminder that no matter where you are in your journey, support is available. Deciding to quit isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most powerful decisions you can make for yourself. We’re here to stand with you and connect you to the tools you need to succeed.”

It’s the sixth year for Quit Week, according to the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services website. Tobacco Free North Dakota collaborates with partners of HHS to promote the week and make available treatment resources. One such resource, NDQuits, provides personalized coaching and nicotine replacement therapy medication, the website said.

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in North Dakota, the GFPH release said, and contributes to about 1,000 deaths each year. It also drives more than $379 million in health care costs. Quitting nicotine products can reduce the risk of cancer, heart attack and stroke and can increase lung function, it said.

Those interested in finding resources to quit or who want to quit tobacco or nicotine usage can visit NDQuits.org or call Odegard at (701) 787-8140. They can also call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.