Smokers with diabetes in St. Lawrence County are not quitting at the rate of others who smoke, according to a local tobacco expert.

Overall, and in adults without diabetes, smoking rates have been declining in New York. But that is not the case among adults with diabetes. “This is alarming since smoking cigarettes can worsen complications related to diabetes,” says Ben Todd, St. Lawrence County Tobacco Programs Coordinator.

For adults without diabetes, the rate of cigarette smoking has declined from 23.7 percent in 2001 to 15.2 percent in 2010, a 36 percent decline. The prevalence of smoking among adults with diabetes was essentially unchanged in the last decade -- 17.1 percent in 2001 and 17.4 percent in 2010. In 2001, the rate for smoking among people with diabetes was lower than those without diabetes. This is no longer true.

Public health programs, health educators and physicians should vigorously promote smoking cessation as part of their work to help people with diabetes better manage their disease and reduce the risk of complications, according to Todd.

Thursday, Nov. 17 marks the 36th annual Great American SmokeOut. Individuals who smoke are encouraged to use the date to make a plan to quit, or to plan in advance and quit smoking that day. By doing so, smokers will be taking an important step towards a healthier life.

November is also Diabetes Awareness Month.

Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the US, yet more than 46 million Americans still smoke. However, more than half of these smokers have attempted to quit for at least one day in the past year.

Quitting is hard, but you can increase your chances of success with help.

Tood suggests talking to your doctor or calling the NYS quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS.