November — Lung Cancer Awareness Month and the Great American Smokeout

Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Promoting Smoking Cessation and Employee Wellness

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, underscoring the importance of awareness and early screening. During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, various organizations and workplaces collaborate to educate about lung cancer prevention, symptoms, and available treatments¹. A crucial message is the importance of lung cancer screenings for individuals at high risk—such as long-term smokers or those with a family history of lung disease. For employees, access to employee benefits that cover low-dose CT scans and other screenings can be essential in catching lung cancer early, when it is more treatable².

The Great American Smokeout: A Key Event for Smoking Cessation Incentives

The Great American Smokeout, organized annually by the American Cancer Society, is a key event for raising awareness of the health and lifestyle benefits of quitting smoking.³ This year, it takes place on November 21st, serving as an opportunity for employers to offer smoking cessation incentives that can help employees quit. The benefits of quitting smoking are profound, including reduced risks of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Smokers who are ready to begin a smoke-free journey can visit resources like becomeanex.org and smokefree.gov, or call (800) QUIT-NOW for support.

Steps to Help Employees and Their Families Quit Smoking

Employers play a significant role in supporting employees and their families on the journey to quit smoking. Here are several impactful steps employers can take to offer smoking cessation incentives and enhance employee benefits for a smoke-free workplace:

1. Provide Information and Resources. Distribute information about the health risks of smoking, along with resources on the benefits of quitting. Provide access to websites, brochures, and quit-line numbers to ensure employees have support readily available.
2. Offer Smoking Cessation Programs. Implement a structured smoking cessation program as part of your employee benefits package. This can include access to counseling services, support groups, and nicotine replacement therapies to increase the chances of successful quitting.
3. Create a Supportive Environment. Develop a smoke-free workplace policy and offer designated smoking areas away from main entrances and common areas. Encourage a culture of wellness by incorporating smoke-free initiatives into your company’s core values.
4. Incentivize Quitting. Incentives are a powerful motivator. Offer financial rewards, extra vacation days, or wellness program points for employees who participate in smoking cessation programs or successfully quit smoking. These smoking cessation incentives help support employees’ health and are beneficial for overall workplace productivity.
5. Promote the Great American Smokeout. Use the Great American Smokeout as a catalyst to support employees in their journey to quit smoking. Host workplace events, provide educational sessions, and offer additional support on this day to help employees take the first step toward a smoke-free life. 

Building a Healthier Workplace Through Smoking Cessation and Employee Benefits

By prioritizing smoking cessation incentives within your employee benefits offerings, you can make a significant impact on public health, especially during November. Supporting employees in their efforts to quit smoking promotes a healthier, more productive workplace. This November, join the movement for a smoke-free future and support your employees in leading healthier lives.

Learn how smoking cessation incentives can strengthen your employee benefits package. Contact a Leavitt Great West benefits strategist today for personalized support on enhancing employee wellness.

References

¹: Lung Cancer Initiative

²: United Health Services 

³: American Cancer Society