Sherri Baumgarner, 45, has been a smoker for 29 years but believes she "can quit at any time."

The Rapid City woman points out that over the years, she has weaned herself to smoking one pack of 20 cigarettes over three days.

Thursday, Nov. 20, the 33rd annual Great American Smokeout, may be the day she kicks that habit.

"I could if I tried," she said.

The positive health effects of quitting smoking will begin almost immediately for the smokers - and for those near them who endure second-hand smoke - according to Dr. Paul Amundson, medical director for Dakotacare.

He says addiction and longtime habits will test Baumgarner and others trying to quit, especially first-time quitters.

"I know it is in the less than 20 percent success rate" on the first try, he said.

That's why Baumgarner and other quitters can call, toll-free, their supporters who are waiting at the South Dakota QuitLine, 866-SD-Quits (866-737-8487). Assistance is available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays.

If smokers don't quit on the Smokeout, they could plan to do so soon, Jen Wahle, regional communications director for the American Heart Association, said. The health agency recommends that smokers set a quit date and make a written commitment by signing a no-smoking contract, decide if they will need medicines to help, then stop on the scheduled day.

Having a "quit team" of friends, family and physicians can help them get through tough times and cravings.

Baumgarner might team up with a buddy to try to get through the day without a cigarette.

Health experts say stopping for good will significantly improve her health, her longevity and her budget (the annual estimated cost of smoking start at $1,600).

But her best reason to stop will be her 10-, 11- and 13-year-old children. They could serve as her Quit Team, motivating her to avoid stressful situations or helping her with activities when cravings strike.

"My kids hate it when I smoke; they really don't like it," she said.

Contact Jomay Steen at 394-8418 or jomay.steen@rapidcityjournal.com