FARGO -- Fargo Cass Public Health invites people who smoke or vape to quit using those products in recognition of the Great American Smokeout.

Thursday, Nov. 20, is the date of the Great American Smokeout, a nationally recognized day dedicated to encouraging people who use tobacco and nicotine to begin their quitting journey.

Fargo Cass Public Health hosts two Turn-In events this week, giving people opportunities to turn in those products and complete a quitting-readiness assessment, FCPH said in a news release.

Turn-In events take place from noon to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19, at the food court in West Acres Mall and from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 20, at Fargo Cass Public Health, 1240 25th St. S. in Fargo.

Doreen Odera, tobacco prevention coordinator, said Fargo Cass Public Health can help people take that first step toward quitting.

"Even if someone isn't ready to quit, we would welcome an opportunity to talk about what their path might look like," she said in the release.

With an adult smoking rate of 13.4%, North Dakota exceeds the national average of 10.8%, according to data. Every year, around 1,000 North Dakotans die from illnesses related to commercial tobacco use, the public health agency said.

Quitting tobacco and nicotine can reduce the risk of illnesses, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer, heart disease and diabetes, and improve mental health including emotional regulation and mood.