The Manitoba Lung Association says quitting smoking in May could literally pay off.  The group is partnering with the province for the second annual Manitoba Quits Contest. Association Spokesperson Jo-Anne Douglas says any person over the age over 18 who has been a daily smoker for the past year can enter the contest.   Participants must enter with a friend who can be their support during the quit period. Both will be entered in a draw to win cash prices totalling more than $5000 dollars if they stay smoke free during the month of may.   

Last year, 1,600 people entered the contest. Douglas says as of late Thursday afternoon, they already have over 300 people across the province signed up. She is optimistic they will be able to double that numbers this year.  

Douglas says that in her experience with the Lung Association, they have noticed there is a slightly higher percentage of people in the Central Plains that smoke compared to the rest of the province. She hopes people in Portage will take part as anyone who signs on for the contest can also pick up a Manitoba Quit Bag at Hill's Drug Store. The bag includes a list of suggestions to help them  when they have a tobacco craving. Registration will continue until April 30th.