37th annual Great American Smokeout

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Any day is a good day to quit smoking, but Thursday you definitely won't be alone.

Thousands of smokers will be willing to butt out. The goal of the smokeout is to quit for at least one day.

In Northampton, the Health Department is trying to help people do that.

They partnered with local businesses to hold a acupuncture clinic on Thursday at the Senior Center on Conz Street.

It's free. No appointment needed.

The city's health department says acupuncture can reduce nicotine cravings and lessen withdrawal symptoms.

There's a growing national push for people to quit smoking.

Locally, many housing authorities, colleges and businesses don't allow smoking.

If your thinking about quitting, a nicotine patch is your standard tool to help you do that. There's also nicotine gums and even water vapor cigarettes.

Experts say if you plan on quitting, make a list of the reasons why. Pick a date and stick to it. And enlist either professional support or the support of your family and friends.

Quitting smoking at any age reduces your risk of cancer, heart disease and other potential deadly diseases.

If you want to learn more about how to quit or just talk to somebody who can support you, call the smokers help hotline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.