INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - The state health commissioner says cigarette use in Indiana has dropped by almost 18 percent since a 44-cent-per-pack tax increase went into effect almost a year ago.

Dr. Judy Monroe calls it real progress and says Indiana's anti-smoking efforts are having a positive impact.

For the second year in a row, Indiana Tobacco Prevention and
Cessation officials and the Indiana State Department of Health are
conducting a contest to help Hoosiers quit smoking.

Open to people 18 and over who successfully quit smoking between September 15th and October 15th, the contest will offer a top prize of $2,500 in a random drawing. People may register online or
wherever a "Quit 2 Win" signup box is located, including many county fairs and festivals. Smokers may also call the state's free tobacco hotline - 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) - to seek help.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)