More than 440,000 Americans die each year as a result of using tobacco, according to a radio ad released this week by Howells Community Catholic Schools and Tobacco Free Colfax County.

Tobacco contains more than 4,000 harmful chemicals, according to the ad. Stopping smoking can help the person who smokes and others, as well, students who produced the ad share.  Secondhand smoke can cause cancer. 

The spot is one of four spots produced as a result of a contest by Tobacco Free Platte County and Tobacco Free Colfax County. The contest recognizes Kick Butts Day, a national day sponsored by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. This is the 16th annual Kick Butts Day. The day is a national day designed to promote tobacco free kids.

The ads are being aired this week in the Columbus and Central City, Nebraska, areas.