Minnesota Quitter’s Day Encourages Residents to Quit Tobacco

Friday, January 10th, marks Minnesota Quitter’s Day, an initiative from the Minnesota Department of Health aimed at encouraging residents to quit smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco. Governor Tim Walz has officially proclaimed the second annual observance, reframing “Quitter’s Day” as an opportunity to keep quitting and to end the stigma surrounding multiple quit attempts.
Since its launch last year, over 4,400 Minnesotans have enrolled in Quit Partner, the state’s free smoking cessation program. The service offers 24/7 access to trained coaches who provide tips, reminders, and encouragement, as well as free nicotine replacement options like patches, gum, and lozenges.
In the Detroit Lakes area, tobacco use remains a significant concern. Recent data indicates that approximately 13.8% of Minnesota adults smoke cigarettes, with similar rates observed in Becker County. Notably, youth vaping has emerged as a pressing issue, with about 13.9% of high school students statewide reporting e-cigarette use in the past 30 days, reflecting trends seen locally.
Minnesota has a notable history in tobacco control. In 1998, the state was among the first to secure a major settlement against the tobacco industry, resulting in over $6 billion allocated to public health initiatives. This funding has supported various programs, including smoking cessation services and public health campaigns, contributing to a decline in smoking rates over the years.
Mike Sheldon, a commercial tobacco cessation expert at MDH, reminds Minnesotans that quitting is a journey, often requiring eight to ten attempts. Quit Partner also offers tailored programs for specific groups, including teens, pregnant and postpartum people, and those with mental health challenges.