Smoking causes 430,000 deaths in the United States every year, nearly 1,000 in North Dakota alone. It is the number one cause of preventable death in this country, and exposure to secondhand smoke is the third leading cause of preventable death.The good news is that it truly IS preventable! By increasing the number of smoke-free environments and helping to decrease the social acceptability of smoking, we can reduce the number of teens who start smoking and increase the number of adults who quit. First District Health Unit provides assistance and services to reduce tobacco use through the Community Health Grant Program. Some programs, such as the Gold Star School Policy program, medical provider workshops to help patients quit smoking, and tobacco prevention coalition meetings are offered throughout the seven-county area. Other programs are handled on a more local level.For more information about tobacco prevention activities in your school or community, or to get involved, please contact your local First District Health Unit office.
Helpful links:
Why Quit Smoking
Quit Smoking All Together
American Lung Association
Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids
Americans for Nonsmokers Rights
