Real Men Quit: Join the Fight Against Chewing Tobacco in North Dakota

Have you heard about the Great American Spit Out? It's this event that happens every year on the third Thursday in February. What's it all about? Well, it's a chance to shine a light on the dangers of smokeless tobacco and to help folks kick the habit.

Smokeless tobacco includes chewing tobacco, snuff, dip, and dissolvable products—just as addictive and harmful as cigarettes

Smokeless tobacco isn’t just harmful—it’s downright unattractive. From a female perspective, there’s nothing appealing about a bottom lip bulging with dip, black tobacco stuck in your teeth, or the constant need to spit. No one wants to kiss that! And let’s not even get started on the disgusting spit cups and bottles—just the thought is enough to turn stomachs.

So, why should we care about GASO? Well, beyond the gross factor, smokeless tobacco is no joke when it comes to your health. It can lead to some serious stuff like cancer, heart disease, and strokes. GASO is our opportunity to spread the word about these risks and give our friends and loved ones a nudge to quit.

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While smokeless tobacco use has declined nationally, North Dakota's rates remain higher. In 2009, 15.3% of high school students here used smokeless tobacco; by 2019, that dropped to 4.5%, but it’s still above the national average. Among adults, 6.4% reported use in 2020. Contributing factors include rural traditions, economic challenges, and higher usage among Native American populations.

But no matter where you are, it's important to know that chewing tobacco is seriously addictive and can mess with your health big time. Even though it's not as popular as it used to be, there's still work to do to kick this habit to the curb.

If you or someone you know dips, Great American Spit Out is the perfect time to quit. Take the 24-hour challenge, spread the word, and break free from a habit that’s not only harmful but also a major turnoff. Trust us—your health, your confidence, and your dating life will thank you.