Health Care Worker Warns Council Of Second Hand Smoke

[amazon_link asins=’B01EVMK0H0′ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’nevadatoday-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’4ba0a7fd-2588-11e8-a96d-bf395e31637c’]Thank you Mr. Mayor and Council members,

My name is Heidi and I work in the health field in Mesquite.

I’m proud to be here tonight with the Mesquite Citizens for Clean Indoor Air.

As you can see, supporters are here again with their blue t-shirts. We’re a persistent group! And that’s because this cause is so important.

We think it’s vital for all people – no matter where they work or what public spaces they visit and patronize – to breathe clean, healthy air.

Many people think secondhand smoke is just annoying or a nuisance, or it smells bad and they don’t want to be around it. But the health risks of secondhand smoke exposure are well-documented through numerous studies. And we mean all kinds secondhand smoke from cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vape and marijuana.

The U.S. Surgeon General says there is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke.

According to the American Heart Association, exposure to secondhand smoke results in the premature death of 34,000 adults each year in the United States.

Even if you don’t smoke, your risk for heart disease increases 25 to 30 percent through exposure to secondhand smoke.

Your risk for stroke is 20 to 30 percent higher when you’re exposed to secondhand smoke. Exposure also increases your risk for lung cancer.

Think about the people who are exposed everyday because of where they work.

In my work, I see everyday the impact tobacco use and exposure have on people’s health.

This is a preventable risk for death and disease. We all pay higher health care costs due to the impact of tobacco use and exposure.

We should stand up for clean air for ALL people.

As you discuss issues that have to do with public safety and things that make Mesquite a great place to live, I hope you’ll keep in mind the healthy and safety of all workers and members of the public.

This is important, and our group will remain persistent. I hope we’ll have your help and support.