SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Public Health today released new television anti-tobacco public service announcements (PSAs) featuring teens from across the state who share their personal observations on quitting smoking. The 11 PSAs were unveiled in conjunction with the Great American Smokeout.

The teens' opinions vary from heartfelt stories of pleading with loved ones to stop smoking to the addictive nature of tobacco to personal hygiene reasons for not smoking to the health effects of the habit. The teens also talk of more humorous reasons for not using tobacco like more time available to develop "special skills" and fear of strange (and unconfirmed) medical repercussions.

"We continually seek new and innovative approaches to impress on the public the dangers of smoking and what could be better than to have the youth of our state deliver that message to their peers and adults," said Dr. John R. Lumpkin, state public health director. "Their reasons, both the serious and the lighthearted, will touch the residents of Illinois."

Dr. Lumpkin urged television stations throughout the state to frequently air the public service announcements.

On Thursday (Nov. 21), people across the country will be encouraged to kick the habit for the Great American Smokeout. For residents of Illinois who want to quit, the Department offers a toll-free Illinois Tobacco Ouitline – 1-866-QUIT-YES, 1-866-784-8937 – staffed by trained professionals.

Editors Note: A video news release will be uplinked by Illinois Information Service on Nov. 21. Included will be comments from Dr. John R. Lumpkin, state public health director, and the 11 public service announcements.

The SATELLITE COORDINATES are as follows:

For technical assistance, contact Illinois Information Service at 217-785-5499.