Join Us for the Great American Spit Out - February 20

Great American Spit Out

PSA by Veteran Tobacco Cessation Program Manager, Paul Caseley (WDVA)

Are you a user of smokeless tobacco products? Have you tried or considered quitting before but need an extra push? The Great American Spit Out on February 20 is the perfect opportunity to prioritize your health and leave dip or chew behind for good.

At the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs, we understand the challenges of quitting smokeless tobacco, and our Veteran Tobacco Cessation Program is here to help you every step of the way. By taking part in the Great American Spit Out, you can blaze a new trail free of dip cans, chew pouches, and spit cups.

Why Should You Quit?

Using smokeless tobacco products like dip or chew significantly increases the risk of oral cancers, as well as cancers of the pancreas and esophagus. These products also cause your gums to pull away from teeth where the tobacco is held, leading to painful sores and decay in exposed roots.

Benefits of Quitting

By tossing your smokeless tobacco products, you can start celebrating:

• Whiter teeth and healthier gums.  
• Fewer mouth sores. 
• Better ability to taste food. 
• Reduced risk of mouth, throat, and pancreatic cancers. 
• Reduced risk of early child delivery and stillbirth. 
• Lower risk of death from heart disease and stroke. 

VA encourages all Veterans to take this important step toward better health. The Great American Spit Out is your chance to make a positive change and embrace a healthier future.

Join us this February 20th for the Great American Spit Out and let your WDVA support you in your journey to quit smokeless tobacco for good!

Together, we can achieve healthier lives and brighter smiles. Let's make February 20th a turning point for a tobacco-free future.

For more information and resources, visit the VA website or contact your local VA health care provider. #GreatAmericanSpitOut #VetsQuitTobacco #HealthyVets #TobaccoFreeLife

Veteran Tobacco Cessation Program Testimonials:

Don’t just take it from us, hear some of the testimonials from the Veterans who have already either quit tobacco, or have begun their journey toward becoming tobacco free!

• “Everything seems to be working fine - the gum seems to be working out just fine. It definitely just takes away the urge to use a vape.  Not sure if I'll use the other products though; the gum seems to be doing the trick. Almost a week sober!”  S.T.

• “Received the package today.  I appreciate you sending it out so quickly, I think I'll be good for a while... 2nd day with 0 smokes… haven't killed anyone yet, so we're doing good, lol”.  T.F.

• “Thank you so much for your help and guidance; it’s been very helpful! If I run across anyone that could use your services, can I give them your number?”  J.A.

• “Thank you for checking up on me and asking how I am doing. I really appreciate that and that you didn't forget about the people who need a little push in the right direction to better their lives (well, at least their lungs...lol).”   M.M.

• “I’m doing rather well.  Haven’t had a cigarette in 10 days!”  T.E.

• “I would say this was a success this time! Thank you so much for your support through this!”.  S.C.

Additional Resources:

• MyHealtheVet web portal Call or send a secure message to your VA health care provider to find out if they are among the many who offer one-on-one or group sessions by phone or video.

Veteran Tobacco Cessation Program Overview Video