Mesquite, NV. A new study by researchers at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas demonstrates substantial health savings could be achieved if Mesquite went smoke-free in all indoor public places and workplaces.
While many Mesquite residents go to St. George, Utah, for medical care, the data in this study are based solely on hospital admission and emergency room data from Nevada hospitals. If costs from Utah for Nevada patients were factored in, the health savings achieved would be even greater.
Cost savings
The study shows Mesquite residents would save an estimated $13.3 million over five years and $2.6 million each year in local health care spending if the community approved a comprehensive smoke-free law.
If Nevada went smoke-free in all workplaces and public places, the state could save an estimated $544,752,009 each year.
There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Exposure contributes to a variety of serious health problems, including cardiovascular disease; lung cancer; Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and childhood asthma attacks.
An estimated 2.5 million adult non-smokers have died since 1964 due to secondhand smoke exposure.
Results
Cardiovascular health
Secondhand smoke increases the risk for heart attacks and heart disease. Mesquite residents can save an estimated $6.7 million over five years and $1.3 million annually spent on treating heart problems by going smoke-free.
Strokes
Secondhand smoke exposure increases the risk for stroke by 20 to 30 percent. Mesquite residents can save an estimated $2.1 million over five years and $420,000 annually treating strokes by going smoke-free.
Lung health
Secondhand smoke causes asthma attacks, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and other breathing problems. Mesquite residents can save $4.6 million over five years and $910,00 annually treating lung problems by going smoke-free.
Emergency department savings
Going smoke-free will save Mesquite residents $3.3 million in emergency department costs over five years.
Medicare/Medicaid savings
Going smoke-free will save Mesquite residents $6.6 million over five years in Medicare spending and $400,337 over five years in Medicaid spending.
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