SmokeFree Wisconsin

President Obama Shows His Support For Tobacco Use Prevention!

2011-11-18T10:03:00.003-06:00

The American Cancer Society's Great American Smoke-Out took place yesterday, a day that encourages many people to quit smoking and lists the benefits of what quitting smoking can do for their lives after an hour, a day, a week, and so on.

The Obama Administration acknowledged this day yesterday as a reflection of the continuous support for preventing tobacco use the administration has shown over the past several years.

The Obama Administration has granted the FDA the authority to ban candy- and fruit-flavored cigarettes, stop the marketing and selling of tobacco products to minors, and ban cigarette labels such as "light," which can be misleading.
The Administration has also created a reform to give smokers the ability to use proven treatments by increasing insurance coverage through funding tobacco prevention programs.
Cigarette tax also increased by 62 cents in 2009, among other tobacco taxes.

We applaud our government officials for their work in the area of tobacco. They show that they care not only for a healthy Wisconsin, but for a healthy America.

To view President Obama addressing the Great American Smokeout and discussing tobacco issues, view the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yd-gboZJYZ0&feature=player_embedded&noredirect=1

Happy Hearts Smokeless

2011-10-31T13:42:00.001-06:00

Our hearts are happier without smoke, and it shows. In fact, according to a 2009 study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, states with smoke-free laws had declines in their emergency room visits for heart attacks of smokers and non-smokers, sometimes 25% below the pre-law rate.

After seeing a statistic like this, quitting smoking looks a lot more attractive, and smokers aren’t the only people whose hearts are being helped by smoke-free laws. By avoiding secondhand smoke, which can increase the risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) up to 25% to 31%, nonsmokers breathe easier, too (Cardiovascular Effect of Bans on Smoking in Public Places). In fact, those states who implemented a smoking ban from January 2004 to April 2009 saw an overall average AMI decrease by 17% overall.

What could or would you do with a healthier heart, a healthier life? Play soccer with your daughter or catch with your grandson? Go for long walks with your partner? Shovel snow without running out of breath?

These seem like small things in the long run, but it’s the little things that count.

If you’re happier that your heart is healthier, here are some things you can do:

1) Write a letter to your local newspaper about how great smoke-free policy has been for your enjoyment of visiting public places and allowing you to live life with less illness.

2) Write or call your legislators and tell them how much the last year-plus of smoke-free air has meant to you in terms of your health and the health of your community.

3) Patronize restaurants and other public smoke-free places and tell them how much you love going out now that you can breathe clean air.

Enjoy your smoke-free air and breathe easy, Wisconsin.

State Stands by Our Kids, Makes RYO Shops Follow the Law

2011-09-26T13:59:00.001-06:00

Do you pay taxes? Roll-Your Own (RYO) tobacco companies don’t.

RYO businesses sell cigarettes that are manufactured at their shops (by actual customers). These businesses are creating generic cigarettes that look the same as name-brand cigarettes, have the same substances as in name-brand cigarettes, but cost about half the price of name brands, which is illegal because they are not paying the same taxes on their products as everyone else. This is a major health problem for our state because cheap cigarettes encourage youth to pick up the habit and discourage adults from quitting. Fortunately, Friday, Governor Walker and the Department of Revenue did something about it.

By allowing RYO shops to not pay taxes, we give children the idea that sometimes smoking can be okay. When we allow the promotion of unhealthy habits we, in turn, get an unhealthy generation that we have to foot the bill for. In fact, we already pay the price—each year Wisconsin pays $2.8 billion dollars on tobacco health care costs. Half a billion dollars from that cost comes directly from the pockets of Wisconsin taxpayers in the form of Medicaid. Personally, I would rather spend that money on my family, my rent check, or a down payment on a hot tub. By preventing this cost of tobacco in Wisconsin in the first place, we all save money.

Unfortunately, our state keeps cutting funding to the Tobacco Prevention and Control Program, hurting our potential progress in lowering the burden of tobacco on our state.. And to add insult to injury, RYO shops aren’t paying taxes on the products producing these high-cost chronic diseases..

That is why we are happy that the governor’s administration and the Department of Revenue are requiring RYO shops to follow the law and pay taxes on the cigarettes they manufacture and sell. The law states “if a retailer or retailer’s customer operates a RYO machine on the retailer’s premises to make cigarettes with loose tobacco, the retailer is both a cigarette manufacturer and distributor. This will make RYO shops, more accountable for their products. It will decrease accessibility to tobacco products for kids. It will lessen the burden of tobacco costs on Wisconsin’s taxpayers. It will promote a healthier Wisconsin.

Appeals Court Upholds Award For Punitive Damages against Philip Morris

2011-08-18T14:25:00.000-06:00

Woman who died at age 65 awarded $13.8 million in punitive damages in case against Philip Morris. The decision was upheld in appeals court on Wednesday. Here's an excerpt on the case from The San Francisco Chronicle:

"The court described Philip Morris' extensive efforts from the 1950s onward to deny the dangers of smoking to its customers and the government - contradicting the company's own research - and to make cigarettes more addictive and advertise them aggressively to youths as well as adults.
"The damage award is justified by 'the extreme reprehensibility of Philip Morris' misconduct, including the vast scale and profitability of its course of misconduct,' Justice H. Walter Croskey said in the majority opinion."

To read the full article, click here.

Clean Up Day at HFW

2011-07-21T13:53:00.001-06:00

It's never too late to do a little spring cleaning! Yesterday was clean-up day at Health First Wisconsin. We deleted thousands of emails, filled up multiple recycling bins and emptied out plenty of file folders! It sure was nice to walk into a cleaner, more organized office this morning. Hidden inside some of the drawers and file cabinets we found some real gems!

In going through fliers created by other organizations we found an old picture of a new friend that we can't wait to share with her...

...We found a fun mixed CD from a colleague (thanks, Kyle)...

...And a neat reminder that some of our champions have been at this for a long time, too - these ads below ran in 2001!

Not all of us quiiiite finished cleaning out our inboxes though... not to mention any names. You know who you are. ;)

Smoking and Tobacco Use in Top Ranking Movies Significantly Reduced

2011-07-14T14:38:00.000-06:00

Between 2005 and 2010 the total number of onscreen tobacco incidents decreased 71.6 percent! In 2010 the average number of incidents of tobacco use per youth-rated movie was 6.8, compared to 20.1 in 2005. This drop is especially exciting because, according to a 2010 meta-analysis of four studies, 44 percent of youth smoking initiation is attributed to viewing tobacco incidents in movies. By exposing our youth to fewer tobacco incidents in movies, we can reduce the number of kids who become lifetime customers of Big Tobacco - currently 4,000 kids in US try smoking for the first time every single day!

So making sure that tobacco use doesn't look cool in kids' favorite movies is important. Between 2004 and 2007, three of the six major motion picture companies adopted policies which provide review of scripts, story boards, daily footage, rough cuts and the final edited film by a manager to monitor tobacco incidents. While tobacco imagery is not banned completely within these policies, these three companies have eliminated tobacco depictions almost entirely in their G, PG and PG-13 rated movies.

Despite this great news, there's still work to be done to get tobacco out of movies our kids see. The World Health Organization and many other public health groups and health professionals recommend that tobacco use in movies automatically set the rating to R unless the movie portrays a historical character who smoked or shows the real, negative effects of tobacco use. Other recommendations include showing ads that warn viewers of the dangers of tobacco use before movies that depict smoking or use of other tobacco products, and "certifying no payments for depicting tobacco use and ending depiction of tobacco brands," according to MMWR report.

But the reduction we're seeing now is certainly a great step and certainly worth celebrating... perhaps with a trip to the theater?

The Smoke-free Law Shows Positive Opinions One Year Later

2011-07-05T14:15:00.001-06:00

One year later, and the verdict is in - Wisconsin is better smoke-free. A recent satisfaction survey released by a coalition of health groups around the state, including SmokeFree Wisconsin, shows Wisconsin residents widely agree—in fact, 75% of potential voters in our state support the Smoke-free law.

After being implemented on July 5^th, 2010, we have seen tremendous health benefits from Wisconsin’s statewide smoke-free law and it’s only been one year!

Here’s a quick recap on how far we’ve come in the last year and how great the law has been:

An air quality test in Wisconsin’s bars and restaurants done by the Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center found unhealthy air in bars and restaurants has decreased 92 percent. This fact is one reason Jessica Schlitz, a bartender at the Uptowner in Riverwest, supports the smoke-free law.

“I love it! Before, it used to be around 3 or 4 o’clock and already you’d have to part the smoke with your hands,” she said in an interview with the UWM Post in January.

Schlitz isn’t the only one noticing the difference. Bartenders’ health around the state has greatly improved with the smoke-free law. Upper respiratory symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath have decreased 36 percent in bartenders, according to a study released earlier this year by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Making sure all workers in Wisconsin, like Schlitz, have the right to work in a smoke-free workplace is important to Wisconsin citizens as 85 percent surveyed believe that secondhand smoke is a serious health hazard in the above-mentioned survey.

In addition to the great health impact it’s had on workers and customers, the smoke-free law has even been good for business! In an economic study released this year, UW-Madison found that cities with smoke-free laws before the whole state went smoke-free saw no adverse economic effects on the hospitality industry when compared to cities without smoke-free ordinances. Now that the whole state is smoke-free, we’re seeing the same positive effect, overall.

Mike Wier, restaurant owner of Kroll’s West in Green Bay said in an interview with WLUK-TV Fox, Green Bay in January, “It was an interesting situation. We had people that were coming back that had been old customers, and they liked the idea that now it was smoke-free.” This coincides with the satisfaction survey, which found 91 percent of Wisconsin residents said they go out the same or more often now that bars and restaurants are smoke-free.

Mike Fassino, owner of Paddy Ryan’s Irish Pub in Hudson agreed that business has not been affected saying he sees “no drawback whatsoever as far as business goes.”

This sentiment was strongly echoed again by Danielle Baerwald, owner of Erv’s Mug in Oak Creek who says their business has been up 20 percent since the smoke-free law was implemented.

“We’re seeing faces and families again who had actually stopped coming in because of how much smoke their used to be coming from the bar,” Baerwald said. “Folks who did smoke in our establishment have adapted quickly to the change and don’t mind going outside to smoke. Even some of my smoking staff say they’ve cut down on how much they smoke because of it. And the rest of my staff has appreciated the change. The law has been good for me and for my customers and employees.”

With the smoke-free law in place statewide, no worker has to choose between their health and a paycheck in Wisconsin. Compliance data from the department of health services shows more than 99% of Wisconsin’s businesses are complying with the law. With that in mind, it’s safe to say that the statewide smoke-free law has been a great success.

Andrew Kron, owner of Pier 500 in Hudson, summed up this success best in his interview with . “The experience I’ve had going smoke-free is it’s been a benefit to not only our guests, but also our staff. From the health standpoint I truly do understand why it’s in place. It makes for a much healthier state and levels the playing field for everyone. We’ve had increases every month, so we’re happy.”

If you are looking to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the smoke-free law today, click here for a list of the celebrations going on statewide.

For more information on the satisfaction poll released by a coalition of health groups on Thursday, June 30^th, 2011, click here.

Celebrate the One Year Anniversary of the Smoke-free Air Law!

2011-06-29T08:11:00.001-06:00

Wisconsin’s restaurants, bars, and workplaces have been smoke-free for almost one year now, and what a great year it has been! The health of thousands has been greatly improved by the dedication you have put into supporting the right to breathe clean air—a right that everyone should be able to enjoy.

It is important that we continue to support our Smoke-free Air Law and keep working together toward a healthier Wisconsin. With your help we have moved the health of Wisconsin citizens forward and your continued support gives us hope for the future. We want to thank you for all your hard work by inviting you to the one year celebration of the Smoke-free Air Law.

The celebration will take place on July 5^th at the Hody Bar and Grill (1914 Aurora Street, Middleton) beginning at 5:00pm and going until about 7 pm. Appetizers will be provided!

Please RSVP if possible to hfw@healthfirstwi.org or on our Facebook event at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=177706658957714 .

For a list of other smoke-free celebrations that may be going on in your area, see here: http://tobwis.org/_Media/ContentAttachments/SFA%20Anniversary%20Events.pdf

Breathe easy, Wisconsin.

State Budget Committee Votes to Give Tax Break to Philip Morris USA

2011-06-01T15:50:00.000-06:00

Vote follows Committee’s decision to double cuts to tobacco prevention programs

Madison, Wis.—June 1, 2011—The Joint Finance Committee voted Tuesday, 13-3, to change taxation on smokeless tobacco products from one based on price—where the tax automatically follows inflation—to one based on weight, which would make some smokeless tobacco much less expensive and give a competitive edge to the tobacco giant Philip Morris USA. The vote to give Philip Morris USA a tax break comes almost immediately following the Committee’s decision to double cuts to the state’s popular and effective Tobacco Prevention and Control Program.

In response to the change, Gail Sumi, Wisconsin Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society, Maureen Busalacchi, Executive Director of Health First Wisconsin – Home of SmokeFree Wisconsin, and representatives from a coalition of health groups issue the following joint statement:

“Yesterday’s vote coupled with the committee’s decision to double cuts to the state’s successful and popular Tobacco Prevention and Control Program is devastating to the health of Wisconsin and sets the state up for a future with more needless addiction and higher health care costs.

“Instead of taking a stand against the number one cause of preventable death in Wisconsin, our leaders have turned their backs on the health of our youth. The tobacco giant Philip Morris USA already targets our kids by the bright packaging of their smokeless tobacco products and their candy-like flavors such as grape, cherry and apple. According to Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, two of UST/Altria’s smokeless brands, Skoal and Copenhagen, make up for half of all smokeless tobacco use among kids. These are the very brands our leaders voted to reduce taxes on.

“By providing a tax break to Philip Morris USA to make the company’s hazardous products cheaper, the Committee is allowing these products to become even more appealing to youth. Numerous studies have shown tobacco prices have a significant effect on smoking rates, especially among price-sensitive teenagers.

“Smokeless tobacco contains two to three times the amount of nicotine found in a cigarette and its users face upwards of 50 times greater risk of developing gum and cheek cancer as well as significantly higher rates of cancers of the larynx and esophagus.

“Wisconsin already spends $2.8 billion annually on tobacco-related health care costs. Roughly $500 million of that is picked up by taxpayers in the form of Medicaid. At a time when Medicaid costs are dramatically increasing, our leaders should consider reducing these numbers through prevention, instead of making decisions that will only amplify these costs in the long run. Saddling future generations with the weight of increased addiction due to decreased tobacco taxation will harm the state’s physical and fiscal health.

“We do want to thank JFC members Rep. Robin Vos, Rep. Dan Meyer and Rep. Daniel, LeMahieu who voted against this short-sighted and irresponsible amendment. We urge the full Legislature to reverse this provision and protect Wisconsin’s kids from the cancer-causing dangers of smokeless tobacco.”

The change in taxation of smokeless tobacco products is scheduled to go into effect January 1, 2012.

# # #

Wisconsin Voters Support New Rules on Tobacco Product Placement and Equal Taxation

2011-05-17T10:47:00.000-06:00

A recent poll found strong, bi-partisan, statewide support for proposals to move all
tobacco products behind the counter, close tax loopholes that allow some tobacco products to be
taxed less than others and continue funding the Tobacco Prevention and Control Program to keep
tobacco out of our kids’ hands.

Tobacco is the number one cause of preventable death in Wisconsin and 80 percent of those addicted
to tobacco begin using it before the age of 18. Recently, the tobacco industry has developed more
ways to target youth by disguising their newest products to look and smell like kids favorite candies,
mints and gum. Currently, there is no state law that requires these other tobacco products be sold
behind the counter. Furthermore, these products are cheaper and are taxed less than cigarettes,
making them more appealing and accessible to kids.

In early May, a coalition of public health groups commissioned Public Opinion Strategies to conduct a
poll on tobacco issues. The poll, which surveyed 500 likely Wisconsin voters, found three out of four
respondents were concerned about tobacco use among youth and supported the Joint Finance
Committee’s recent decision to maintain funding for the Tobacco Prevention and Control Program.
In addition, pollsters found nearly eight in ten voters favor a behind-the-counter proposal for candy
flavored tobacco and 71 percent want to close the tobacco tax loophole and tax all tobacco products at
the same rate as cigarettes.

The poll illustrates strong public support for the ongoing efforts of the Tobacco Prevention and
Control program and for legislative action to close tobacco loopholes that target kids and jeopardize
the fiscal and physical health of Wisconsin and its citizens.

To read survey click here.

Yet Another Reason to Support Smoke-Free Air Laws

2011-05-04T15:59:00.000-06:00

Secondhand smoke delivers nicotine to the brain. A new study released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Monday, found there are even more health risks associated with secondhand smoke. The study, published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, discovered that "even limited secondhand smoke exposure delivers enough nicotine to the brain to alter its function," said National Institute on Drug Abuse Director Nora D. Volkow, M.D. in a press release by NIDA. This can also increase vulnerability to nicotine addiction for individuals heavily exposed to secondhand smoke.

This new study is just one more reason to support Wisconsin's smoke-free law, implemented July 2010 to reduce the number of individuals exposed to the known toxins in secondhand smoke. The law has already been shown to improve air quality, improve bartenders health, doesn't hurt businesses and more than 99 percent of Wisconsin workplaces are in compliance.

Wisconsin really is better smoke-free!

Stomach and Throat Cancers Linked to Smoking

2011-04-08T11:30:00.003-06:00

A recent Italian study has found that smokers have an increased risk of certain throat and stomach cancers, even after quitting. Current smokers’ risk of developing esophageal or gastric cardia (located in the stomach) cancers is two times higher than nonsmokers, and even people who had quit smoking for over three decades still had a heightened risk of esophagus cancer.

What’s more, smoking tied with obesity has led to skyrocketing numbers of esophageal and gastric cardia cancer rates in the U.S. and Europe.

And the risks don’t decrease to nonsmokers’ rates after quitting. They remain higher, even decades later. The sooner a person quits smoking, the faster they will receive health benefits, but cancer risks are still decrease slowly, being on average 62% higher in former smokers than lifelong nonsmokers.

Some people may wonder why they should quit smoking if their risk of cancer is still higher after quitting, but when one compares the cancer rates of former smokers to the rate of current smokers, quitting does have its benefits - especially beyond cancer risk. Why wait another day to both increase your chance at disease and decrease your overall health?

To read more click here.

Study Shows people are smoking less often and in smaller doses, leading to decreases in lung cancer!

2011-03-25T14:56:00.000-06:00

A new study tested smoking rates in the United States and California separately to analyze smoking intensity patterns and found that both smoking and lung cancer rates have decreased! California was tested separately because it has been the country’s leader in reducing cigarette smoking since the warning on smoking was given by the surgeon general in 1964.

The results showed that in 1965, 23.2 percent of adults in California and 22.9 percent of adults in the United States (excluding California) were heavy smokers. These rates decreased dramatically by 2007 as only 2.6 percent of adults in California and 7.2 percent of adults in the rest of the United States were said to be heavy smokers. This decline was also mirrored to a smaller extent in moderate smokers, showing Californians in 1965 to have a moderate smoking rate of 11.1 percent, while the remaining states had a 10.5 percent rate. By 2007 these rates dropped to 3.4 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively.

John P. Pierce, PhD, of the University of California, San Diego, commented on this decrease, saying, “This decline in high-intensity smoking was not accompanied by a compensatory increase in the prevalence of less-intense smoking.” This means that people are smoking smaller doses AND less often.

These results have been correlated to the decrease in lung cancer. California’s lung cancer rate was at its peak in 1987 at 109 deaths per 100,000 and dropped in 2007 to 77 per 100,000. The rest of the United States’ had its lung cancer death rate in 1993 with 117 deaths per 100,000 and declining in 2007 to 102 per 100,000.

This study shows just how important efforts, like those of SmokeFree Wisconsin and its partners, are to the health of our state. We must continue to work hard in Wisconsin to reduce tobacco use. Currently, 7,000 Wisconsin adults still die from their own smoking and 6,900 Wisconsin kids become new smokers each year. The burden of tobacco is one we all share, whether we use it or not. Tobacco costs Wisconsin $2.8 billion in health care costs every year, according to Burden of Tobacco in Wisconsin 2010, and for every cigarette pack sold, the expense to Wisconsin taxpayers is $9.53 in health care costs and lost productivity. We must continue working to bring down these costs, saving Wisconsin dollars and lives.To do that, we must continue funding for the state's Tobacco Prevention and Control Program as our work is far from finished.

If you are a smoker who would like to quit, please call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

To learn more about this study, see the summary on WebMN here.

New Study Links Maternal Smoking During Pregnancy to Congenital Heart Defects in Infants

2011-03-18T13:08:00.000-06:00

The journal Pediatrics published a new study titled, "Maternal Smoking and Congenital Heart Defects in the Baltimore-Washington Infant Study," which found maternal smoking during the first trimester of pregnancy increased the risk the baby would be born with congenital heart defects by 20 - 70 percent. A congenital heart defect is a condition some babies are born with which decreases the heart's ability to work well. These birth defects are the most common types of birth defects and make up for 30 percent of infant deaths as a result of birth defects every year. This new study shows how critical it is that a woman trying to get pregnant quit smoking. Quitting smoking before or very early into the pregnancy, the CDC says in a press release, "could prevent as many as 100 cases of right ventricular outflow tract obstructions and 700 cases of atrial septal defects each year in the US."

"Quitting [smoking] is the most important thing a woman can do to improve her health as well as the health of her baby," said CDC Director Thomas R. Frieden, M.D. M.P.H. in the CDC press release.

Today, nearly 40,000 infants are born with congenital heart defects in the US every year and in 2004, hospital costs for these defects were $1.4 billion, according to the CDC.

If you are pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant and need help to quit smoking, click here for the Wisconsin Women's Health Foundation's First Breath program.

You can also call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit the Wisconsin's Quitline site by clicking here.

For more information on the study:

Click here for The Center for Disease Control and Prevention's press release

To read the report, click here

Click here for more info on birth defects and smoking or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.

For more info on congenital heart disease, click here.

Smoke-free Law Improves Bartender Health in Wisconsin

2011-03-14T12:15:00.000-06:00

New study shows bartenders exposed to less secondhand smoke are feeling the difference

Madison, Wis. – March 14, 2011 – A new study released by the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee on Monday found that bartenders all around the state are feeling an improvement in their health since the smoke-free law was implemented on July 5^th 2010 and began protecting them from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke in their workplace.

Researchers surveyed 531 bartenders around the state two months before the smoke-free law went into effect and then, again, three to six months after implementation. Bartenders’ first and second responses were

compared and researchers found upper-respiratory symptoms, including wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing first thing in the morning and sore throats, decreased by 36 percent after the statewide smoke-free law went into effect.

“The smoke-free law improves health and saves lives,” said Maureen Busalacchi, executive director of SmokeFree Wisconsin. “This data is further evidence that Wisconsin workers are healthier now that the air is cleared of the 70 known cancer-causing agents found in secondhand smoke. Wisconsin truly is better smoke-free.”

Researchers also found that bartender support for smoke-free establishments increased to an overall 72 percent during the course of this study. Support went up the most among bartenders who smoke and bartenders in rural areas.

“Support for the law continues to grow as more and more people see the very real, immediate and positive health effects associated with this life-saving legislation,” said Busalacchi.

This study is one of many that have been released recently which show strong support for the smoke-free law and the incredible health benefits already occurring as a result of Wisconsin becoming smoke-free.

For more information on the study visit: www.cuir.uwm.edu

To view and share a video of taverns and restaurants in support of the law visit: http://bit.ly/smokefreebars

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Study Associates Drop in Ear Infections with Decrease in Smoking Among Parents

2011-03-11T16:40:00.001-06:00

For the last 15 years, pediatricians have been witnessing a continued drop in ear infections in their patients, now close to a 30 percent decrease. Today, a new study from Harvard University may have an explanation; a decline in smoking among parents.

JSOnline Reports: '"When people are smoking less around their kids, when homes are smoke-free, the rate of ear infections can and has decreased,' said Hillel Alpert, lead author of a study published recently by the journal Tobacco Control."

Researchers explain that secondhand smoke exposure in kids can trigger irritation and swelling in a child's nose and throat, causing ear infections.

The Harvard study points out the decline in ear infections in the last 13 years coincides with the what the Associated Press found to be a 40 percent decrease in the number of people exposed to secondhand smoke since 1990 (CDC).

Not everyone agrees the two are linked, as the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel points out, and the study's researchers say further research is necessary. But this study highlights the serious health impacts secondhand smoke can have on a child and why efforts must continue in order to protect a child's right to live and breathe tobacco-free.

Read more about the Harvard Study by clicking here.

Read the full article on the study by clicking here.

Study Finds Smoking is Holding Back US Life Expectancy

2011-03-07T17:17:00.002-06:00

Desire long life and quality in your years? A recent report released by the National Research Council shows that smoking and obesity are shortening Americans potential life spans. Though life expectancy in the US is indeed increasing, it is increasing at much slower rates than other areas in the world. The study showed that within the last five years the average life expectancy of women is 80.4 years and 75.3 years for men in the United States, contrasting with the Japanese, whose women live for an average of 86 years and men live around 79.2 years.

These statistics are directly related to smoking, according to the report, as people who smoke, or used to smoke, have a decreased life expectancy. While smoking isn't as prevalent now as it used to be, the damage of the past still leaves an impression on the present and future. Each person’s smoking history makes a difference as every inhale leaves a lasting mark on their health. This is why every day of choosing whether or not to quit smoking counts.

Smoking can shorten your days, but obesity also plays a factor in future health, not just temporarily, but in the long term. Generally speaking, the United States does not adequately prevent obesity, and many people who become obese gain chronic illnesses (such as hypertension and diabetes). It is, too often, only after getting a disease that our health care system steps in to treat chronic illness. This is why the prevention work that Health First Wisconsin and other organizations around the state and country do, pursuing health before the onset of disease, is so important. Let's step in and promote health before we have to treat it.

The results of this study also show how critical it is that we keep funding programs like the Tobacco Prevention and Control Program. Despite the great steps forward Wisconsin and the United States have made to curb tobacco use, there is much more work to be done.

The study goes on to remind us we need to remember that there are many different social contexts in which smoking and obesity are more likely, but if we try to promote prevention of smoking among youth as well as cessation, we can hope for longer lives which mirror our global counterparts. If we look to prevent obesity through healthier eating and frequent exercise we can curb our likelihood of gaining chronic illnesses that hold us back and look to live longer and better quality lives.

To read more about this study on The Nation's Health click here.

World Cancer Day - Tobacco Use Linked to 20% of Cancer Deaths Worldwide

2011-02-04T14:46:00.000-06:00

Are you wearing red this fine Friday? Today is World Cancer Day. And did you know that tobacco use accounts for 20% of cancer deaths? That makes it the most preventable cause of cancer death worldwide, according to the American Cancer Society! The organization says their report, released today, found that in 2008, lung cancer made the top three cancers in both men and women.

Wisconsin has been making great strides to address this issue lately, including with the implementation of a statewide smoke-free law.

But the report by ACS finds cancer numbers will likely double by 2030, to reach 21.4 million cases and 13.2 million deaths. Part of the reason cancer will increase, according to this report, is that the population will increase, and the population will age, but in a press release by ACS the organization says, "it may be compounded by the adoption of unhealthy lifestyles and behaviors related to economic development, such as smoking, poor diet, and physical nutrition."

For this reason, and many others, it is important that Wisconsin continue investing in tobacco control efforts through protection and enforcement of the statewide smoke-free law and adequately funding the state's Tobacco Prevention and Control Program, among other efforts.

Let's continue promoting a healthy Wisconsin and bring those cancer numbers down!

Click here to read about World Cancer Day on American Cancer Society's Web site

First Breath Programs Reaches 10,000 Participants

2011-01-28T15:04:00.000-06:00

Since the Wisconsin Women's Health Foundation's First Breath program started in 2001,10,000 pregnant women have participated, with 35% of those women, 3,500, successfully quitting smoking as a result of their involvement. Smoking during pregnancy is the leading cause of premature birth and low infant birth weight. It can also increase the risk of stillbirth and SIDS. In Wisconsin, 15% of pregnant women admit to smoking during pregnancy, according to First Breath. That's 2% more than the national average. To address this, Former First Lady Sue Ann Thompson started First Breath, a statewide, non-profit org focused on women's health. The program integrates cessation programs, including home visits and phone calls, into existing prenatal care models in an effort to ensure the baby's first breath is smoke-free!

The program estimates that since it started in 2001 it has saved almost $3 million in neonatal health care costs, according to their press release. In their release they also point out that preventing just two very low-birth weight premature babies each year saves Wisconsin Medicaid $400,000!

Congratulations to First Breath on reaching 10,000 participants! Thanks for your hard work!

To learn more about First Breath click here.

For an article on First Breath and those the program helps click here.

Smoke-free Ordinances Don't Hurt Business, Says New Study

2011-01-25T16:47:00.000-06:00

A new study released by the UW-Madison Carbone Cancer Center found that hospitality businesses saw no negative economical impacts as a result of smoke-free ordinances in the years following implementation.

The study focused on Madison, Appleton, Eau Claire, Marshfield and Fond du Lac, cities with smoke-free ordinances. From 2005 to 2009, researchers analyzed changes in the number of alcohol licenses issued, employment in sub-sectors of the hospitality industry, the number of establishments, and citations for violations of the city ordinances. After comparing the data to cities without smoke-free ordinances, researchers found no adverse economic effects throughout the hospitality industry, including bars and taverns.

In addition, there were only three violations in five cities over the course of the research, according to the study. Researchers claim this suggests business owners did not find it more profitable to disobey the law and run the risk of citation fees.

This study tells us what we had been told by other states all along; over time, hospitality businesses, including bars and restaurants, are not negatively impacted as a result of smoke-free ordinances. Wisconsin's statewide smoke-free laws should see even more positive economical effects on businesses over time.

We recognize it may take some individual customers and businesses time to adjust initially but this study shows that in the long-run, the hospitality industry performs as well as before implementation, if not better.

New FDA Regulations Announced for Tobacco Companies

2011-01-12T15:36:00.000-06:00

There's been talk about the new FDA regulations announced last week for tobacco companies, so I thought I'd make it the topic for today's blog post. It's a complex topic, but an important one so I'd like to highlight some of what these new regulations will hopefully mean both short-term and long-term.

As of March 22, 2011 tobacco companies must report any changes to existing products or any new products to the FDA or submit a report showing that the changes or the new product are "substantially equivalent" to products that were on the market before February 15, 2007. This means these products cannot be more harmful than products that existed on the market as of that date. Tobacco companies that made any changes to products or created new products between these dates are being asked to submit reports on these products by March 22, 2011.

This "unprecedented disclosure requirement" is similar to what food and pharmaceutical companies have had in place for a long time. It is meant to ensure that all tobacco products made or changed are evaluated by the FDA. Until this time, changes could be made to tobacco products secretly, without the millions of consumers in America even knowing what is in the product they are using.

If these new or changed products raise question of public health by being worse than existing products, they can be pulled from the market if already on the market today or the FDA can keep these products from being marketed in America. To meet this requirement, tobacco companies cannot simply prove the products are less harmful. That requirement will be balanced with the risk and benefit to the population as a whole, including those trying to quit who may get hooked on this new product, or those who are not currently using tobacco products that may become addicted as a result of this new product being marketed.

What this could potentially mean:

In the immediate future, the impact of this will mostly be seen by the tobacco companies themselves, but the long-term potential these regulations have is that fewer products that attract our youth and turn them into lifetime, addicted, tobacco customers will be seen on the market. Because every new or changed product must go through a review process, tobacco companies will likely have to be more selective in what products they attempt to push through.

For more information on the new FDA regulations from the FDA's web site click here

For The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids' Press Statement on the FDA regulations click here.

Happy Smoke-free New Year!

2011-01-03T14:47:00.000-06:00

Now that we've all officially said goodbye to 2010 and have welcomed 2011, what are your plans to make this year great? The new year is a perfect excuse to quit smoking, if you're looking for a push. Not only will your decision to quit lead to a healthier you, but it will also give your wallet a healthy boost too (click for ACS's smoking cost calculator)!

If you are a smoker planning to kick the habit this year, click here to get help from the Wisconsin QuitLine.

If you know someone trying to quit you can help by offering your support and letting them know you'll be there every step of the way!

Let's all have a healthy and smoke-free 2011 together!

Help Keep Wisconsin Smoke-free This Holiday!

2010-12-25T20:02:00.000-06:00

It’s already December and winter seems to have suddenly moved in. We’ve had plenty of snowfall and temperatures are staying low enough to keep hats on our heads and our hands tucked in mittens. With the winter weather comes a special time of year and you can already feel the excitement that lingers in the air for the upcoming holidays. It’s cookie baking, ornament making, hot cocoa tasting time! A time where we snuggle by a fire with our family and friends and recap where the past year has taken us.

This season, as we look back and see where the year has taken SmokeFree Wisconsin, we are grateful for you, our supporters, for all you have helped us accomplish this year, including the implementation of the statewide smoke-free law.

Looking ahead to 2011, we know we may have to fight to keep this hard-won legislation and we’ll need your help to win the battle. Please donate as much as you can today by clicking here.

Here’s a glimpse at the lives the law has already changed in the nearly 6 months since its implementation.

Colleen makes her living working as a server in a bar/restaurant in Milwaukee. For Colleen, just 8 months ago, going to work meant possibly exposing herself and her unborn child to the 7,000 known chemicals and compounds found in second hand smoke. At that time Colleen was pregnant and her place of employment allowed smoking after 10 pm.

“I dreaded it on those nights because I knew it was going to happen,” said Colleen. “I’d hide in the kitchen and run out quickly when I had to. I didn’t want second hand smoke for my baby and the smell made me sick. I was pregnant so everything made me sick but the smell was overwhelming.”

This holiday season, she and little baby Connor are delighted the air is finally cleared and she is grateful to live in a state that has her back, looking out for her health each day she goes into work.

“It’s nice to not have to come home from work to the baby smelling like smoke. I feel healthier too. I think everyone’s happy about our smoke-free state.”

So when you look back on 2010 and think of what you’re grateful for, keep Wisconsin’s smoke-free law in mind and donate $50, $75 or $100 today to help SmokeFree Wisconsin fight to keep this life-saving legislation.

You can donate online by clicking here.

Thank you again for your continued support.

Happy holidays from our office to your home.

P.S. SmokeFree Wisconsin is a 501(c)3 organization. Therefore, your donation is tax-deductible to the extent provided by law.

SmokeFree Wisconsin Receives Grant to Work with Wisconsin Tribes

2010-12-20T15:33:00.000-06:00

Madison, Wis. – Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights granted SmokeFree Wisconsin (SFW) $136,000 to extend smoke-free protection to Tribal workplaces.

In July 2010, Wisconsin made history becoming the 28^th state to implement a smoke-free law, protecting the right of all workers to have a smoke-free workplace. However, this law did not apply to Tribal lands because they are sovereign. This leaves up to 78,000 people unprotected from the benefits of smoke-free air. Now, SFW is teaming with Tribes around the state to expand smoke-free protections for employees.

“We are very excited to work with the Tribes on this issue,” said Maureen Busalacchi, Executive Director of SmokeFree Wisconsin. “Wisconsin is not 100% smoke-free until all workers are protected. We look forward to working collaboratively so that all Tribal work places are healthier places to be.”

Funds for this project will go toward working with Tribes in garnering additional media attention, community education, grassroots, and implementing smoke-free workplaces.

“Our programs are very excited to collaborate with SFW,” said Teresa K. Barber and Isaiah Brokenleg of Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council who work on ending tobacco abuse in Indian Country. “We look forward to realizing a world where everyone is free from the harms of commercial tobacco, including those of us who play, work or live on reservations.”

The grant money, covering an 18-month period beginning this month, will also be used for promoting and protecting Wisconsin’s smoke-free law.

National Survey Shows Signs of Smoking Increasing Among Young Teens, Smokeless Tobacco Rates Up Too

2010-12-17T16:02:00.000-06:00

In the last decade, teen smoking has been cut in half in Wisconsin, a result of an effective tobacco prevention and control program in our state, among other things. But a new national study released by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, finds the decrease in teen smoking rates nationwide has largely stopped and use in young teens is beginning to swing back up.

The "2010 Monitoring the Future" study has been tracking teen smoking in the US for 36 years. This year, the study, designed and conducted by the University of Michigan, found that smoking among 8th graders and 10th graders increased a small amount and rates of smokeless tobacco use, specifically snus, in 8th, 10th and 12th graders has increased significantly in the last few years.

These results come at a time when many states are cutting back on tobacco prevention and control funding. Wisconsin decreased funding for the state's Tobacco Prevention and Control Program by 55% in 2009. In order to keep the hard-won decreases in youth smoking rates in our state, we must adequately fund the Program. Youth smoking rates are ever-changing so let's continue standing up for our kids and help them make the right choices, avoiding a lifetime of addiction at the hands of the Tobacco Industry.

Wisconsin has made great efforts to improve the health of those who live, work and play here. It's time to make the healthy choice the right choice for ourselves and the children in our communities! Let's keep the momentum moving forward and avoid the backlash other states have seen!

For more information on the 2010 Monitoring the Future study click here.

To view the press release on the study from the University of Michigan click here.

New Research Shows Significant Improvement in Air Quality of Wisconsin Bars and Restaurants

2010-12-14T16:12:00.001-06:00

Air Quality “Good” or “Satisfactory” in 97% of establishments tested after Smoke-free Law

A new study released by the University of Wisconsin found that air quality significantly improved after the smoke-free law took effect on July 5, 2010.

Air quality is measured by the amount of small particles found within the air. The size of these particles, which tobacco smoke is the leading cause of in indoor air, allows them to penetrate deeply within lung tissue and walls of arteries.

From April 2 – June 18, 2010, researchers visited 214 establishments statewide recording the air quality. At this time, the average air quality level was categorized as “very unhealthy” according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) standards.

After implementation of Wisconsin’s smoke-free law, tests were again conducted from August 28 – October 23 in establishments previously found to have “unhealthy” air quality. During these visits, researchers found 97 percent of the establishments had air quality categorized as “good” or “satisfactory.”

“These findings demonstrate the incredibly positive impact the smoke-free law is already having on the environments of Wisconsin’s workplaces,” said Maureen Busalacchi, executive director of SmokeFree Wisconsin. “No one’s workplace should be hazardous to their health and this study further proves our workers are now breathing in cleaner, healthier air throughout their workday. This legislation is literally life-saving.”

The study also provides further evidence of high-compliance throughout the state, in line with recent data released by the Department of Health Services which found less than one percent of Wisconsin’s nearly 200,000 businesses are in violation of the law.

Check the study out by clicking here.

To see UW-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health's report on the study click here.

See Wisconsin Department of Health Services' release on the study here.

New Research Shows MN Smoke-free Law Improves Health Without Economic Harm!

2010-12-02T16:57:00.000-06:00

A new study published this month in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found Minnesota's smoke-free law, which took effect in October of 2007, has not adversely affected bar and restaurant employment in the state.

The research conducted at the University of Minnesota found no statistically significant changes in bar and restaurant employment statewide or regionally after the state's smoke-free air law went into effect. (Employment is a key indicator of economic impact.)

A second study highlighted in AJPM found that air pollution from secondhand smoke particles in bars and restaurants decreased by 95% after the statewide smoke-free law was implemented.

These studies are further evidence that smoke-free laws quickly clear the air, improving the health of our workers without causing negative economic impacts to businesses.

To read full study in AJPM click here.

To read SmokeFree Wisconsin and American Cancer Society's press release click here.

To learn more about the studies and Minnesota's Clean Air Act click here

WHO's First Report on Worldwide Burden of Tobacco on Health

2010-11-29T14:47:00.001-06:00

USA Today: Second hand smoke sickens and kills 600,000 people worldwide every year, says a new report by the World Health Organization. The report found 165,000 of these deaths are in kids younger than five.

But researchers say that smoke-free laws can help to curb this number since in just one year after these types of laws are enacted heart attacks drop 10-20%. In the USA Today article, Stanton Glantz, director of the Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education at the University of California-San Francisco calls smoke-free laws one of the "glimmers of hope" within the report.

Overall, tobacco kills 5.7 million people worldwide each year.

Read the full USA Today article on the report by clicking here.

This Thanksgiving We're Grateful for You and Wisconsin's Smoke-Free Air.

2010-11-24T14:22:00.000-06:00

My family has a tradition each Thanksgiving, I'm sure not too different from many of yours. Once all the food is on the table and we're gathered around the dining room taking in the aromas of turkey, stuffing, broccoli salad and freshly baked rolls we all pause a moment. Then, one by one, we go around the table and must each say what we're most thankful for before anyone can start eating.

Today, it's SmokeFree Wisconsin's turn at the table to say what we're most thankful for. It's been such a great year it's too hard to pick just one, but we will keep it to only two.

1) We're so thankful for you, our supporters who give in whatever way you can, helping us fight to end tobacco's long reign as the number one cause of preventable death in our state.

2) We're thankful for SMOKE-FREE AIR! This year we became one of 29 states to implement a smoke-free law. It's been a huge step forward in public health for Wisconsin. Today, every worker is guaranteed a smoke-free workplace, reducing their chances of developing chronic diseases like hearth disease or asthma, saving individuals, businesses and the entire state money in health care costs in the long-run. We know our work does not end here as more than 7,000 Wisconsinites still die each year in tobacco-related deaths, but it's a big move forward! Thank you to everyone out there who helped us push to make a smoke-free Wisconsin a reality!

Have a happy, smoke-free Thanksgiving!

Less Than 1% of WI Businesses Receive Noncompliance Complaints for Smoke-Free Law

2010-11-18T14:31:00.001-06:00

Data on the first four months of Wisconsin’s statewide smoke-free law shows compliance with the law is extremely high.

According to data collected by the Department of Health Services (DHS), the number of complaints filed in violation of the smoke-free law peaked at 205 in July, the first month the law took effect, and hit an all-time low of just 78 in October. The law applies to nearly 200,000 businesses statewide.

“These numbers further demonstrate the already evident success of the smoke-free law,” said Maureen Busalacchi, Executive Director of SmokeFree Wisconsin. “Smoke-free laws, whether on the local or state level, are generally self-enforcing. People understand the dangers of secondhand smoke and respect the law.”

“Clearly the smoke-free law is working and workers, patrons and the public are breathing easier,” said Gail Sumi, Wisconsin Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society. “Eliminating secondhand smoke from our workplaces has been and will continue to be key to keeping Wisconsin workers healthy and productive. It’s good to see so many businesses are readily adapting to the healthier environment.”

In total, less than one percent of businesses statewide have had compliance complaints since the law went into effect July 5^th. Businesses reported in violation of the law first receive a warning letter from DHS and subsequent complaints can lead to fines both for business owners and for smokers.

Anyone wishing to report a violation can do so anonymously at http://wibettersmokefree.com/ or by phone at 1-800-NO-SMOKE. A breakdown of the month-to-month complaints and number of businesses cited can be accessed at: http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/tobacco/.

Wisconsin is one of 23 states that have comprehensive smoke-free laws as a matter of public health.

Check out Wisconsin Restaurant Association's Press Statement on Compliance Data Here.

35th Great American Smokeout!

2010-11-18T11:42:00.000-06:00

It's that time of year again... American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout is here!! This year is ACS's 35th GAS! Today thousands are expected to stamp out their cigarettes and make a plan to quit. If you know someone who smokes encourage them to make today the first day of their new, smoke-free life. Be there to offer your support! If you are a smoker, make the first step today to a healthier lifestyle by creating a quit plan. Quitting isn't easy, so lean on your friends and family for support, make a plan and start today! Here's a few resources from the American Cancer Society for those looking to kick the habit.

Know what you're up against. Click here for a guide to help you quit.

Know just what putting down that cigarette will mean for your health both short-term and long. Click here!

Find out what quitting will mean for you wallet. Click here!

Good luck and congratulations to everyone committing to a smoke-free lifestyle today!

Camel's Shameful Campaign

2010-11-12T13:35:00.000-06:00

R.J. Reynolds is at it again. The company has launched a new campaign using "cool" and "hip" cities all over the country to market their addictive and poisonous product. Special edition packs of cigarettes will feature these cities with related artwork and slogans to make their products seem rebellious, hip and filled with a sense of freedom - all characteristics that attract youth attention. Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids and others are calling RJR to stop this campaign and asking state attorneys general to look into whether this move violates the 1998 state tobacco settlement's prohibition of marketing cigarettes to youth. As part of this campaign, RJR has launched an online component called the "Break Free Adventure," where you can win prizes by correctly guessing where in the country Camel is making a stop. You can see this campaign by clicking here.

Some of the cities and slogans featured on these packs will be:

Williamsburg-Brooklyn, New York - "Some call it the most famous hipster neighborhood. But it's not about hip. It's about breaking free. It's about last call, a sloppy kiss goodbye and a solo saunter to a rock show in an abandoned building."
Austin, Texas "Name a live show that rocked history - we'll put money that Camel was there. So Camel two-steps its way to Texas for a Lone Star taste of that independent spirit and all-access pass to the 'live music capital of the world.'"
Seattle, Washington "Home of grunge, a coffee revolution and alternatives who'll probably tell you they're only happy when it rains."
San Francisco, California - "The Summer of Love, protests to be civil and a rainbow of counterculture. Whether you started here or put flowers in your hair, grabbed a drum and hitched a ride on a painted minibus, Camel lights up this little piece of San Francisco that pulses with the spirit to evolve, revolve or revolt and follows the force to break free."
and more.

The campaign is causing a stir with city officials in the locations Camel plans on featuring and is becoming a topic in newspapers and blogs.

Click here to read the article "Camel Smokes Out Brooklyn Locale" in the Wall Street Journal

Click here to read the article "Joe Camel - a hipster? R.J. Reynolds markets its smokes to Williamsburg" in The Brooklyn Paper

To learn more, read Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids' press release here.

Wisconsin's Rate of Tobacco Sales to Minors Drop Again

2010-11-10T16:07:00.000-06:00

For the eighth year in a row, illegal tobacco sales to minors in Wisconsin fall below the Federal target rate, Governor Doyle announced today.

According to a press release by the Department of Health Services, the noncompliance rate fell from 5.7 percent in 2009 to 4.7 percent in 2010. The release says this decline is largely a result of youth prevention efforts in our state.

'"In Wisconsin, we are working hard to protect our kids from tobacco,"' said Governor Doyle in the release from DHS. '"This year's compliance survey is direct evidence that funding a comprehensive tobacco prevention program pays off. Credit also goes to retailers for helping to keep tobacco out of the hands of minors."'

Every state must stay below the 20 percent Federal target or they risk losing 40 percent of their federal grant funding for substance abuse prevention and treatment. In Wisconsin that would be around $10 million.

Read the full press release from DHS on WisPolitics here.

Read The Associated Press article about the decrease here.

Wall Street Journal on Negative Health Impacts When Tobacco Control Program Funding is Slashed

2010-11-10T10:22:00.004-06:00

The Wall Street Journal: "States have cut their combined funding for smoking prevention in the current fiscal year to the lowest level since 1999," the WSJ article, published yesterday points out.

The article goes on to explore the backlashes many states have seen after their tobacco prevention and control programs experience significant funding cuts, similar to the cuts WI saw in 2009.

The trend the article finds is that when these cuts happen, the smoking rates in those states, many of which were falling significantly when the programs were well funded, quickly begin to stall.

Check out the the full article here.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Reacts to CDC Report

2010-11-05T09:33:00.001-06:00

Credit: CDC

The CDC released a report yesterday with state-by-state data on smokeless tobacco use rates. (We blogged about it below.) Here is an article from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on what these numbers mean for Wisconsin and why smokeless tobacco products worry health officials.

Check out the full article here!

CDC Releases First-Ever, State-by-State Smokeless Tobacco Data

2010-11-04T16:01:00.001-06:00

For the first time ever, the CDC has released state-by-state data on smokeless tobacco use compared to smoking rates. They found many who smoke cigarettes also use smokeless tobacco products.

Here's where WI came in:

Current smoking rates among adults: 18.8% (that's down not even 1%)
   WI men smoke at a 3% higher rate than WI women
Current smokeless tobacco use rates among adults: 3.7 %
   WI men are 6 times more likely than WI women to use smokeless tobacco products
Current rate of cigarette smokers who also currently use smokeless tobacco: 6.1%
   WI men are 5% more likely to use these two products together than women.

In analyzing the data, the CDC also found...

Smokeless tobacco use tends to decrease as education increases
"Smokeless tobacco use is predominantly a public health problem among men, young adults and persons with lower education..."
Young men have a high prevalence of using both cigarettes and smokeless tobacco
It is necessary that tobacco control groups push for media messages, policies and interventions to keep people from starting any of these products and to help those who already have quit
Using both smokeless tobacco products and cigarettes together may hinder successful smoking cessation
To prevent tobacco-related deaths, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that health care providers find out which tobacco products their patients use and advise them to quit. In combination with this effort, WHO recommends that taxes on tobacco be raised and smoke-free policies also be strengthened to reduce tobacco-related deaths.

To read the full Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report click here!

Tobacco Fight Far From Over - LTE

2010-11-03T15:47:00.000-06:00

"We have a serious problem, and the new [smoke-free air] law is only one step in the right direction."

These words come from Lorraine Lathen, with the Wisconsin African American Tobacco Prevention Network, whose letter to the editor was published in The Journal Sentinel in Milwaukee and The Journal Times in Racine.

One area Lathen targets for improvement in her letter, is the use of menthol in cigarettes to target African Americans, a community she represents through her coalition. She says in the article, "In the 1960's, the tobacco industry found that African Americans smoked more menthol cigarettes than non-menthol cigarettes. As a result of their findings, they began marketing menthol-flavored cigarettes in African American communities as well as in highly segregated urban communities... Sadly they have not stopped these marketing practices since." Her marketing claim is supported by the CDC.

pollay_ads Newp05.01

Lathen continues on to explain more about menthol in cigarettes, why it's appealing to some and why it's so dangerous.

She ends her letter encouraging readers to "Fight back today" by quitting their smoking habit or helping others they know to quit, volunteering with her coalition, and educating others on the impact menthol has in their communities.

Check out the full JS article here or JT article here.

No Treats Just Tricks

2010-10-29T15:00:00.000-06:00

Now that you know what new tobacco products are hitting the stores, how they're being marketed and what risks they carry, you can see the OTPs as the tricks they are. These products appeal to our youth, a vulnerable group that does not need early exposure to tobacco's control. Let's close the tax loophole on these products and protect our kids.

Make sure you pass the information along. Let your friends and family know what's out there so they can make the right decision for their health and help steer our youth away from the road to a lifetime of addiction that the Industry would prefer they walk down.

So I will leave you with some more resources below. Thanks for taking the time to follow along with our Trick or Treat OTP Series and have a safe and tobacco-free Halloween!

Additional Resources:

From 2006 - 2008 there were 13,705 cases of poisoning in young children and infants from accidental ingestion of tobacco products reports WebMD. "Of particular concern are new dissolvable, compressed tobacco products that come in small pellets, such as Camel Orbs. Researchers say their packaging resembles mints and the products themselves have a candy-like appearance and added flavorings that make them attractive to young children," the article states.

The American Cancer Society on risks of using smokeless tobacco

Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids "The Danger from Dissolvable Tobacco and Other Smokeless Tobacco Products"

Videos from Rock County Forum

2010-10-29T12:27:00.000-06:00

Interested in hearing what candidates from AD 43, 44, 45 and SD 15 have to say about tobacco?

Check out these videos with answers to two tobacco-related questions at the candidate forum held in Rock County on Thursday, Oct. 21.

Question on funding for the state's Tobacco Prevention and Control Program:

Rock County Forum - Question #1 from SmokeFree Wisconsin on Vimeo.

Question on taxing all tobacco products at an equal rate:

Rock County Forum - Question #2 from SmokeFree Wisconsin on Vimeo.

For more videos of candidate forums around the state check out our Vimeo site here!

Trick or Treat: Camel Strips

2010-10-28T13:42:00.000-06:00

"'The consumer should be aware of the information available about the potential risks of each tobacco product. There are none that are safe and there are none that are without risks,' said RJ Reynolds rep David Howard." - This quote is pulled from an article in Brandweek written specifically about the emerging products, Camel Orbs, Camel Sticks and our product of the day today - Camel Strips.

This slick, attractive package contains 20 dissolvable "Fresh" strips of tobacco. The product comes with instructions on how to open it and "How to Enjoy." Strips are placed on the tongue or folded up and placed between the lip and gum of the user. The Strip is then left to fully dissolve, lasting about 3 minutes. Strips are just bigger than a quarter, and look very similar to Listerine breath mint strips, but they won't leave your breath smelling too sweet.

Like the other dissolvable tobacco products, the Strips packing must carry a warning for it's users. "WARNING: THIS PRODUCT MAY CAUSE MOUTH CANCER" is displayed on the thin side of each pack.

As mentioned earlier this week, products like this one, and other OTPs, are not taxed equally to cigarettes. This, along with their flashy packaging and sweet flavors mimicking popular candies and gums kids love, send the wrong message to our youth. The health risks posed by these products are not ones we'd wish on any of our own children. There are efforts we can take to protect them from these products such as closing the tax loophole. Make sure your kids see this as the trick it is and not a new kind of treat.

For today, I'll leave you with this quote from U.S. Tobacco. "Cherry Skoal is for somebody who likes the taste of candy, if you know what I'm saying." That quote comes from a Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids fact sheet on tobacco and kids.

For more information on these products and youth, you can also check out the press release from Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids released in 2008 .

Trick or Treat: Camel Sticks

2010-10-27T14:50:00.001-06:00

Sticks are another new product the Tobacco Industry is introducing as one that you can "Enjoy Anywhere. Anytime. Anyplace."
(As a writer, the grammar of that catchphrase drives me nuts, but that's perhaps beside the point.)

These Sticks are finely milled tobacco twisted into a stick form about the size of a tooth pick. The tobacco is also mixed with sweetener and flavor and of course nicotine is present too. They last a little bit longer than the Orbs do, 20 - 30 minutes total. Each Stick is placed in between the inside of one's cheek and their gum and the packaging directs you to "let each Stick dissolve completely in your mouth." The Sticks come with directions on how to use them, including how to get them out of the package.

While some argue Sticks, and other OTPs, can be used in place of cigarettes and will reduce harm to the user, I encourage you to look back at the CDC's claims that smokeless tobacco products are NOT a safe alternative to smoking and that smokeless tobacco products are a significant health risk. The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids references a 2008 study from the WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer which found, "smokeless tobacco users have an 80 percent higher risk of developing oral cancer and a 60 percent higher risk of developing pancreatic and esophageal cancer." The Smokeless Tobacco Outreach and Prevention Guide referenced in a Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids fact sheet says, "constant exposure to tobacco juice causes cancer of the esophagus, pharynx, larynx, stomach and pancreas." These numbers are in comparison to those of non-users.

You will also see right on the Sticks container, "WARNING: THIS PRODUCT IS NOT A SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO CIGARETTES."

It's just a new kind of "cancer stick."
Nice trick.

Missed the AD 41 and 42 Forum in Montello?

2010-10-26T14:00:00.000-06:00

We captured the candidates' answers for tobacco-related questions just for you! Check out the video below!

Candidate Forum - Montello, WI from SmokeFree Wisconsin on Vimeo.

You can watch videos from more Candidate Forums around the state here.

Candidate Forum Video From Spring Green Event

2010-10-26T13:48:00.000-06:00

Candidate Forum - Spring Green from SmokeFree Wisconsin on Vimeo.

If you are voting in AD 49, 51 or SD 17 check out this video! We recorded the candidates answers to tobacco-related questions at the Spring Green forum which took place Oct. 18.

Trick or Treat: Camel Orbs

2010-10-26T13:44:00.002-06:00

Camel Orbs are dissolvable tobacco pellets, that, as you can see here, are about the size of a tic tac. The product is made from finely milled tobacco and are said to last about 15 to 20 minutes. The user simply puts the mint on their tongue or in between their cheek and their gum. The product comes in two different flavors; "Fresh" and "Mellow." The industry calls these smokeless and spitless products, "the best tobacco you've never smoked." The label on each package directs you to "let each Orb dissolve completely in your mouth." The package will also tell you, in a less so prominent place, "Warning: This product may cause mouth cancer." The CDC will tell you the risks don't end there. According to the CDC, smokeless tobacco contains 28 known, cancer-causing toxins, that it is not only known to cause cancer of the mouth, but to also increase the risk of developing cancer of the pancreas. The CDC will tell you it's strongly associated with leukoplakia, a precancerous lesion in your mouth, recession of gums, gum disease and tooth decay. They can lead to preeclampsia, low birth weight and premature birth in pregnant women and reduced sperm count and abnormal sperm cells in males.

Another ingredient you won't find on the Orbs packaging is nicotine, especially not the fact that the mints can lead to nicotine overdoses, according to Oral Cancer News. This report in Oral Cancer News, claims Camel dissolvable products deliver up to three times the amount of nicotine that's in a cigarette.

This poisonous product mimics the look of candy products like tic tacs right down to the leafy shape around their logo. So teach your kids these products are dangerous and NOT a safe alternative to cigarettes, a claim the CDC has backed up. A lion in sheep's clothing is still a lion.

Now that you know about this product, how to identify it and what's really on the inside, spread the word. Let's teach our youth to opt for the treat and not this highly-addictive, toxic trick!

OTPs... More Trick Than Treat

2010-10-25T13:08:00.002-06:00

"Trick or treat!"

You'll be hearing this line all weekend. It's a phrase that brings to mind bags full of candy and kids running around dressed up like their favorite characters. After collecting as many goodies as they can, trick-or-treaters all over the country will dump out their candy bags on the floor at home and sort each piece into piles by favorites, colors, brands or whichever organizational tactic they prefer.

Big Tobacco is playing a similar game. "Trick or treat?" is what many are asking themselves when they see the Industry's latest products. These products, or OTPs (other tobacco products), disguise themselves as their favorite characters too, candy treats. The OTPs' packages look very familiar to candy and some of the products are even flavored with sweet tastes like grape, berry, watermelon, dreamsicle, cookie dough, even chocolate covered cherries. Big Tobacco brags you can take these products anywhere and use them everywhere because they are smokeless and spitless. With these qualities, smokeless and spitless, they become very easy for our kids to use without anyone knowing. Students can sit in class with a tobacco mint in their mouth and their teachers would have no idea. The sounds of a kid dumping out a tobacco mint into their mouths behind you in the car sounds the same as one dumping out a few tic tacs. Trick or treat?!

So to help you answer that question when you're standing in your local convenience store, we'll be taking a closer look at some of these products all week. Each day, Tuesday- Friday, we'll highlight a different product, help you to identify it and let you know the dangers of it. Some of the products we'll look at are Orbs (tobacco mints with nicotine), sticks (dissolvable tobacco sticks with nicotine that you place inside your mouth), strips (dissolvable strips, much like Listerine strips only instead of a minty fresh taste you're slowly taking in... you guessed it... nicotine and tobacco), and other similar products. (You do have to be 18 to purchase these products.)

These OTPs are not taxed equally to cigarettes sending a message that they are an ok alternative to smoking. The CDC has released a statement, backed by evidence, saying these products are NOT a safe alternative to cigarettes.

So trick..or treat... what do you think? We must not let Big Tobacco trick our kids with these products, leading them down a road to a lifetime of addiction. Stay tuned all week to learn about a new product each day.. and make sure your kids are aware of these "tricks" and stay away.

Candidate Forum in Wausau TONIGHT!

2010-10-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

The next Candidate Forum is Monday, Oct. 25th in Wausau!

Here are the details...

4 - 6 pm

UW-Marathon Auditorium

518 S. 7th Ave.
Wausau, Wisconsin 54401

Candidates

AD85

Rep. Donna Siedel – (D) CONFIRMED

Charles Eno – (R) CONFIRMED

Jim Maas – (L) CONFIRMED

AD86

Todd Punke – (D) CONFIRMED

Rep. Jerry Petrowski – (R) INVITED

AD87

Frank Rutherford (I) CONFIRMED

SD23

Sen. Pat Kreitlow (D) CONFIRMED

Terry Moulton (R) Invited

SD29

Sen. Russ Decker – (D) CONFIRMED

Pam Galloway – (R) Invited

Hope to see you there!

For more info check out this article in the Wausau Daily Herald. Click here!

Video of AD 52 and 54 Candidate Forum in Oshkosh

2010-10-22T10:20:00.000-06:00

We took a camera to the forum in Oshkosh a week ago, on Oct. 14th. Here are the three candidates introductions and then the answers Gordon Hintz (54) and Jonathan Krause (54) gave to tobacco-related questions. Paul Czisney (52) had to leave after the first half hour of the forum which is why he is no longer in the video after the candidate introductions.

Enjoy!

Missed the AD 41 and 42 Forum in Montello?

2010-10-21T14:31:00.000-06:00

If you couldn't make it to the Candidate Forum Breakfast in Montello yesterday morning and you want to hear where the candidates stand on the important public health issues covered... you're in luck! Check out this report from the Portage Daily Register on the event.

Click here to read article.

Smoke-Free Update on WRCO Radio

2010-10-20T15:42:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago Blair Weyer, coordinator for South Central Wisconsin Tobacco-Free Coalition, was live on WRCO's morning talkshow to promote an upcoming forum and answer tobacco-related questions, including how things are going with the smoke-free air law. I apologize that this interview took place a couple weeks ago and I am only now getting it on the blog. The forum being promoted in the segment has now passed, but the rest of the information is great!

Enjoy!

Click here to listen to the interview.

Great job in the interview Blair!

This Week's Candidate Forum Schedule

2010-10-18T11:32:00.001-06:00

You have just two weeks left to make your final decision on who you're going to vote for this election season, so we're bringing your candidates to you!

Attend one of our many candidate forums going on around the state in the next two weeks to learn how your candidates feel about important public health issues like tobacco, alcohol, nutrition and more! You also have a chance to submit your own questions to be answered by the potential policy-makers.

Here's the schedule for this week... chances are there's one near you!

Monday Oct 18:

Spring Green Forum - AD 49 & 51 and SD 17

6:00pm-7:30pm

The House on the Rock Resort

400 Springs Drive

Spring Green, WI 53588

Tomahawk Forum - AD 35

6:30 – 8pm

CESA 9

Rm 1/2

304 Kaphaem Road
Tomahawk, WI 54487

Tuesday Oct 19:

St. Croix Forum – AD 29

11:30am – 12:30pm

WITC-New Richmond

Student Commons

1019 S Knowles Ave

New Richmond, WI 54017

Wednesday Oct 20:

Candidate Forum Breakfast (Montello) – AD 41 & 42

8-9:30 am

UW Extension County Services Center

480 Underwood Ave.

Montello, WI

Thursday Oct 21:

Rock County Forum – AD 43, 44 &45 and SD 15

6 – 7pm

Blackhawk Tech
Rm 1400A
6004 South County Road G
Janesville, WI

Hope you can make it to one of these events! There will be more forums next week and we'll keep you posted on just when those will be!

Shards O' Glass - Truth

2010-10-14T10:32:00.000-06:00

Have you seen the new Shards O' Glass recall commercial by Truth? What do you think?

Third-hand Smoke Puts Your Baby at Risk

2010-10-06T14:00:00.002-06:00

Jonathan Winickoff, a pediatrician at the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center in Boston was quoted in the Scientific American defining third-hand smoke as, "tobacco smoke contamination that remains after the cigarette has been extinguished."

When that article was written in January of 2009, Winickoff discussed his research into the danger of third-hand smoke and the levels of toxins left behind after a smoker puts their cigarette out. But at that time, he knew of no research done that linked this recent discovery to disease.

Now, a new study out of Germany takes the research a step further, showing, for the first time, that these toxins are not only transferred to infants from their care-takers clothing, but that the toxic substances penetrate through the infant's skin "into deeper tissue layers," and do produce harmful effects in the exposed baby or toddler's skin.

The "harmful effects" researchers found to occur were massive damage to the skin cells of the child, "changing their shape and even, where the concentration was high, died off," and also that "nerve cells, which are particularly active during the early stages of development, showed clear changes and were no longer able to connect properly with one another."

So if mom or dad take a quick cigarette break, even if it's outside, and then pick up their little one, they are putting the child's health at risk, according to the study.

To read the full press release on the study click here.

To read Scientic American article from January 2009, mentioned above, click here.

Entertainment Industry Has Public Health Responsibility Say Authors of New Study

2010-09-30T16:08:00.000-06:00

Medscape Medical News Reports: As a result of a recent study, The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a statement calling for a ban on tobacco advertising in all media. In this statement, published in the October issue of AAP, experts point out there is 1 smoking scene every 57 minutes on American television. The statement gives 17 recommendations which include encouraging parents to limit their child's media exposure, and push for more media education and restrictions on advertising of alcohol and tobacco. The report calls these products gateway drugs and says they "pose the greatest threat to children and teenagers," noting that those individuals who smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol are 65 times more likely to use marijuana than their peers who do not smoke or drink.
Therefore, the authors of the study are recommending pediatricians "encourage the entertainment industry to have greater sensitivity about the effects of television and movies on children and accept that the industry does, indeed, have a public health responsibility," reports Medscape Medical News.

View the full article from Medscape Medical News here.

Read AAP's report here.

The Wall Street Journal: Congress Examining Whether Tobacco Manufacturers Are Avoiding Taxes

2010-09-23T15:58:00.000-06:00

WSJ Reports: Congress is looking into accusations that some tobacco manufacturers are exploiting a tax loophole by increasing the weight of their "little" cigars to avoid paying the recently increased excise tax on such products. By changing the weight, these cigars can be classified as "large" cigars, taxed at lower rates. Interestingly, the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau found in the 14 months following the tax increase, sales of "large" cigars have quadrupled and sales of "little" cigars have plummeted, reports WSJ.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee is not only looking at these accusations to see if tobacco manufacturers are indeed avoiding taxes, but they are also examining whether or not these flavored tobacco products are in violation of the Food and Drug Administration's rules against marketing cigarettes to youth. According to WSJ, this rule could apply to "little" cigars if they meet the definition of a cigarette. The picture above compares "little" cigars to an actual cigarette.

To read The Wall Street Journal's full article click here.

SmokeFree Wisconsin Needs Your Help

2010-09-22T12:05:00.009-06:00

Fall is officially here! It is a favorite season of many! As we enjoy the beauty around us, we get to pull out all our warm sweaters and cozy up with some hot apple cider with a pumpkin spice candle flickering nearby. Just as the clothes at the front of our closets change , our state, too, will soon undergo some changes. Very soon, new faces will be chosen to lead Wisconsin citizens for the next few years.

Recently, some individuals and municipalities started speaking out against the recently-passed, smoke-free air law and are even talking about repeal! We cannot let these threats to this life-saving legislation come to fruition. At SmokeFree Wisconsin, we are working relentlessly to make sure the smoke-free air we've all just achieved stays that way, but we need your help! We are so grateful for the support you have offered in the past as we worked up to this point. Please give whatever you can today to help us protect Wisconsin's hard-won, smoke-free air law and continue our efforts to preserve the right for everyone to live and breathe tobacco-free!

Click here or the link above to donate and say "Yes!" to preserving Wisconsin's smoke-free air!

Smoke-Free Air Laws Can Save Kids' Lives, According to Recent Study

2010-09-17T08:49:00.004-06:00

New research finds smoke-free air laws have "even greater health benefits than previously believed," reports The Washington Post. The new study, conducted in Scotland and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that these laws reduce the number of trips to the hospital for kids suffering from asthma, potentially saving their lives. USA Today reports the study found, "the number of children hospitalized for life-threatening asthma episodes fell 18% in the first year after Scotland's smoke-free law took effect." Before Scotland passed their smoke-free air law, these numbers were on the rise.

While many studies have shown smoke-free air laws like Wisconsin's greatly improve the health of hospitality workers, this study furthers those findings by providing evidence that the laws have a very positive impact on the health of our children, as well. Wisconsin has the fifth highest kids' exposure rate to second-hand smoke in the nation. This study suggests the recently passed smoke-free air law can help to bring those numbers down and improve the respiratory health of our kids.

Read more about the study in The Washington Post here and in USA Today here.

Economical Impact of Cessation Programs in Our State

2010-09-14T13:45:00.007-06:00

American Lung Association has posted a new study out of Penn State called, "Smoking Cessation: The Economic Benefits." Check out the interactive map and see how Wisconsin measures up with other states. Click on the state to see more on the economical impact of cessation programs there.

Click here to check out study.

Smokeless Tobacco Products NOT Safe Alternatives to Smoking, Says AHA

2010-09-14T13:05:00.010-06:00

American Heart Association reports: Smokeless tobacco products like snuff and chewing tobacco are not only an unsafe alternative to smoking, but they also can increase the risk of certain cancers, fatal heart attacks and strokes, reports AHA.

Smokeless tobacco contains 28 known cancer-causing toxins and can lead to both oral and pancreatic cancer, gum disease and tooth decay and, in men, reduced sperm cells, according to the CDC.

In addition, these products "increase the risk of relapse for those who have already quit smoking," said AHA.

Check out the new report from AHA on CNN's Web site.

Community/Candidate Forums

2010-09-13T14:30:00.006-06:00

So far, the forums have been successful! We have had many community members in each district show up and engage the candidates with very helpful questions on the important public health issues that matter most to each area. The candidates have made time to hear their potential constituents' concerns and share their position on each issue. The forums have been a valuable resource for everyone involved.

We are very excited to have these forums recorded by WisconsinEye and posted to their Web site.

If you follow this link, you can view any of the three forums that have taken place so far.

The forums recorded here are the 77th AD forum, held in Madison on Sept. 7th, the 8th AD forum in Milwaukee on Sept. 9th and the 10th AD forum in Milwaukee Sept. 10th.

To help you navigate, here are the times for the tobacco-related questions in each forum.

77th AD Forum (total time, 1 hour and 13 minutes):

05:10 - 10:33 Presentation on the burden of tobacco in our state

24:00 - 30:17 Question about continued funding for tobacco prevention and control efforts

36:10 - 42:30 Question about closing the tax loophole on other tobacco products

8th AD Forum (total time, 1 hour):

After the introduction until 15:00 One of the organizers discusses the burden of tobacco in our state

26:00 - 30:03 Question about support for financing of tobacco cessation programs for Vets

34:35 - 39:08 Question about continued/ increased funding for tobacco prevention and control efforts

10th AD Forum (total time, 1 hour and 18 minutes):

13:25 Question about closing tax loophole on other tobacco products

23:10 - 27:20 Question about supporting funding for tobacco prevention and control efforts

27:20 - 36:00 Question on what candidates ideas are to keep kids from smoking in their district

48:40 - 52:32 Question about whether candidates would pressure stores to ID kids buying alcohol and tobacco

57:25 Question about candidates thoughts on talk of repealing the smoke-free air law

01:03:50 Question on candidates thoughts on reducing the number of stores in area that will break up packs and sell individual cigarettes to kids and what will they do to stop this

P.S. Community/Candidate Forums will continue until the General Election on Nov. 2nd!

Continue checking our blog for where and when those will be taking place!

Candidate Forums in Milwaukee

2010-09-09T10:43:00.006-06:00

Today and Tomorrow, we are encouraging supporters of SmokeFree WI and healthy living advocates to attend candidate forums in the 8th and 10th Assembly Districts. These races are open seats with the retirements of Rep. Colon and Rep. Williams respectively. Each of these districts will have a new representative in Wisconsin's General Assembly and they need to know how important it is to maintain a smoke-free Wisconsin.

These forums allow voters to learn the positions of candidates on many important issues surrounding achieving a healthier Wisconsin. Large crowds will demonstrate how important it is to protect public health and clean air. These events are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided. Please invite friends and family!

Let your future representative know where you stand by joining us at this forum!

8th Assembly District Candidate Forum

September 9, 2010

5:00-7:00 PM

UMOS, Inc

2701 S Chase Ave

Milwaukee, WI 53207

All Candidates Invited. The event is sponsored by the Hispanic Latino Tobacco Prevention Network, Milwaukee Latino Health Coalition, and the American GI Forum - Wisconsin.

10th Assembly District Candidate Forum

September 10, 2010

10:00-11:30 AM

Martin Luther King, Jr. Center

1531 W. Vliet St.

Milwaukee, WI 53205

All Candidates Invited. Elizabeth Coggs, Stephanie Findley, and Sherman Lawrence Hill are confirmed to attend. The event is sponsored by the Wisconsin African American Tobacco Prevention Network, Wisconsin Tobacco Prevention and Poverty Network, and New Concept Self Development Center, Inc.

CDC - National Youth Smoking Rate No Longer Declining

2010-09-08T08:43:00.005-06:00

HealthDay News Reports: The number of teens smoking in the United States is no longer decreasing as it had for the last decade. According to a new US government study, increased tobacco prevention efforts are necessary to begin bringing these numbers down again. The CDC found the rates of teens smoking nationwide was not significantly different in 2009 than it was in 2006.

"The researchers said tobacco use remains the single leading preventable cause of death and disease in the United States and that more than 80 percent of adult smokers begin smoking before age 18," reported HealthDay News.

In order to reduce smoking and the use of other tobacco products in teens, the study authors said, there must be restrictions on advertising and promotion of these products to young people, as well as have smoke-free air laws around the nation and increase the prices of these products.

Read full article here for more information and for the current smoking rates of teens nationally.

Picture credit: Woodgate Design

Happy Smoke-Free Labor Day

2010-09-07T15:04:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was Labor Day, a holiday designed to recognize the contributions workers all over the US have made to our country. In light of this holiday, Wisconsin should be proud of the step recently made to recognize and protect the right of all workers to breathe smoke-free air in our state. This Labor Day, for the first time, every Wisconsin worker could take a deep breath in, without also taking in the harmful carcinogens known to be in cigarette smoke and the more than 100 other toxins that remain in the air even after the cigarette has been put out. No longer do the hard-working men and women of Wisconsin have to choose between a paycheck and exposure to these life-threatening chemicals as all work-places are now smoke-free.

So this Labor Day, our hats go off to all you workers out there and to those who helped make a smoke-free Wisconsin possible!

Picture Credit - Flickr:mag3737

Find Out Which Candidates Share Your Values

2010-09-03T10:47:00.006-06:00

On Tuesday Sept. 7th, 2010 the Dane County Coalition to Reduce Alcohol Abuse, Tobacco-Free Columbia-Dane County Coalition and Wisconsin Partnership For Activity and Nutrition are hosting a community/candidate forum for the 77th Assembly District.

The forum will give community members a chance to share with the candidates which public health issues are important to them and hear where each candidate stands on the issue. It also gives the candidates an opportunity to hear the concerns of their potential constituents. It's a great two-way conversation and an invaluable resource for voters.

Some candidates in upcoming elections are talking about repealing the smoke-free air law if given the opportunity. Make sure your voice is heard.

The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

All 77th AD candidates were invited. The candidates that have confirmed their attendance are; John Imes,Brett Hulsey, Dianne Hesselbein, Ben Manski and Fred Wade.

The event will be held from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at CUNA Mutual, 5810 Mineral Point Rd. (Round Building), Madison, WI 53705. It will be on the second floor of the building across from the auditorium.

We hope to see you there and we encourage you to bring a friend or two!

UW-Stout Becomes First Four-Year School Within UW System to Go Tobacco-Free

2010-08-31T16:24:00.008-06:00

UW-Stout students, faculty, staff and visitors will no longer be permitted to use any tobacco products on campus grounds as of Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2010. The new ordinance, voted on by a handful of student members of the UW-Stout Student Association, will prohibit tobacco-use both indoors and outdoors, including sidewalks and parking lots. Doug Mell, the executive director of communications at the University said it didn’t make sense to pass the new rule and exempt certain areas.

“Looking around the country and talking to other universities that have done this, we found one of the ways that it is most effective is if you don’t start carving out exemptions and exclusions,” said Mell. “Either we were going to do it or we weren’t. We didn’t exempt anything.”

All tobacco receptacles have been removed from the campus and anyone seen using tobacco on campus will be given a piece of paper, reminding them the campus is now tobacco-free and providing the individual with contacts for cessation programs.

According to Mell, the new ordinance is not about telling anyone they can’t smoke or use these products, but it's about educating those at the university on what's best for them and their health.

“There’s an increasing amount of evidence showing a significant amount of students who leave campus as smokers were not smoking ahead of time,” he said. “Anything we can do to show smoking is harmful to their health and will kill, anything we can do is worth the effort. Making UW-Stout tobacco-free sends a very important message about what we believe is best for our students, faculty and staff.”

Mell believes there will not be too much opposition because of the overwhelming support for the implementation of a Smoke-Free Air ordinance on campus last year.

He said many students believe as he and his colleagues at the university do, “If society is going that way, which we believe it is, what do you get by waiting?” he asked. “What do you gain by waiting for five years if you’re going to do it in five years anyway.”

SmokeFree Wisconsin congratulates the students at UW-Stout for taking such a positive position on tobacco-use and protecting the health of their fellow students and staff members. We also congratulate those higher up at the university who signed off on this important decision. Way to go UW-Stout. We hope others will follow!

To see local media coverage on new campus ordinance click here!

There is NO Safe Amount of Exposure to Cigarette Smoke - New Study Finds

2010-08-31T08:41:00.008-06:00

The study, published in the Aug. 20 issue of American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, found even "casual" smokers and those exposed to second-hand smoke suffer intial damage to the genes in their cells that line their airway.

The report on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Web site says, "The bottom line: 'There is no level of cigarette smoking or exposure to cigarette smoke that does not make the cells in your lungs sick,' said study author Dr. Ronald Crystal, chief of the division of pulmonary and critical care medicine at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell, in New York City."

Click here to view the full article on the new study.

Lance Armstrong Supports a Smoke-Free Wisconsin

2010-08-30T09:51:00.004-06:00

Lance Armstrong kicked-off Madison's annual Ride The Drive on Sunday, August 29th. The very first thing he said, "It's awfully cool for me as a cancer survivor to be in a smoke-free Wisconsin." The crowd began cheering and Armstrong went on to say, "It's great to be in this great state that's now smoke-free."

Check out the video below of Lance Armstrong's opening remarks.

Lance Armstrong Thinks Wisconsin is Better Smoke-Free from Kyle Pfister on Vimeo.

What's Being Marketed to You on YouTube?

2010-08-27T14:42:00.005-06:00

CNN Reports: A recent study found videos on YouTube promoting tobacco products to the site’s audience. The study, published in Tobacco Control, found more than 70% of the 163 popular videos studied had content that was pro-tobacco. Tobacco companies say they aren’t behind the videos.

Check out CNN’s blog post about the study and the complete study itself here.

Get Your Vote On

2010-08-23T12:56:00.030-06:00

So I know it’s still 80 degrees out and many of us may be refusing to admit fall is just around the corner, but it really is. And with that comes election season! The primaries are less than a month away, and in quite a few districts it is the primaries that will determine the state assembly and state senate seats. Are you registered to get your vote on?

If you’ve moved since the last time you voted, or if you’re a first-time voter you need to register. You can register at the polls, but it will save you time to register beforehand.

In Wisconsin, you have a couple choices if you choose to register before Election Day.

1. Register in person at the municipal clerk’s office where you live. You can register there up until 5 p.m. the day before the election. If you are registering after the mailing deadline listed below, you must bring an acceptable form of proof of residence, such as a current and valid Wisconsin driver's license, a utility bill or a bank statement, with you to the clerk's office. Many cities, towns or villages have additional places where you can register, as well. Check with your community for these other registration sites.

2. Another option is to register by mail. You can download and print out a registration application here. If you’d rather, you can also call or write to your clerk’s office, to request an application be sent to your address. If you are a first-time voter, you must submit an acceptable copy of proof of residence when you return the application. The completed application must be postmarked and received by the clerk’s office 20 days before the election. If you're voting in the primaries, you only have until the 25th of August, this Wednesday, to get the form to your clerk's office if you want to register this way.

For more information on how to register, where you’re polling place is located or any other questions about the election process you can visit this site and click on the “Elections & Voting” tab at the top.

Smoking Prevalence in Top Movies Hits Record Low!

2010-08-20T13:33:00.014-06:00

USA Today Reports: Last year, less than half of the 145 hit movies had smoking in them, according to a recent study. That is a new record low for the last two decades! In movies aimed at children, 61% of them had no smoking at all.

However, there is still smoking in 54% of movies rated PG-13, which, researchers say, is concerning because that’s where teens view it the most.

Check out the full article about the new study on USA Today’s Web site.

Smoking Tied to Frequent Headaches and Migraines in Teens

2010-08-19T13:06:00.004-06:00

A new study published in the American Academy of Neurology found teens that smoke, teens that are obese or teens that exercise very little get frequent headaches or migraines more often. Smoking teens are 50 percent more likely to suffer from headaches and migraines than teens without any of these three negative health factors. Of the three health factors, smoking teens had the highest chance of frequent headaches.

Check out the full article here.

The Celebration Events of the Smoke-Free Sounds Series Continue!

2010-08-18T14:46:00.009-06:00

If you haven't made it out to a Smoke-Free Sounds Series concert yet, presented by the American Lung Association in Wisconsin, True Endeavors and Wisconsin is Better Smoke Free, your chance isn't over! The series continues through August, celebrating live music in Wisconsin's smoke-free air!

If you’re in the Racine area and don’t have plans for Friday Aug. 20^th, check out Jason and The Haymakers at Raytown Roadhouse. The music starts at 9 p.m. and admission is only $5!

All of you in the Green Bay neighborhood, Smoke-Free Sounds Series is coming to you Saturday, Aug. 28^TH at 8 p.m. Monsters of Mock will be playing at Tom, Dick and Harry’s in Green Bay. Admission is $5 for this event as well.

For more information on the Smoke-Free Sounds Series click here.

Local Enforcement Ordinances Continue to be Passed

2010-08-13T13:58:00.004-06:00

It’s been almost a month and a half since the statewide smoke-free air law took effect. Already more than 50 local enforcement ordinances have been passed around the state to make sure area residents and visitors are breathing clean air. We applaud these communities! Because of the new law and these local enforcement ordinances, everyone is able to breathe easier!

You can find your community's web site here and see if their enforcement ordinance is listed.

Have a great weekend and enjoy the smoke-free air!

Introducing SmokeFree Wisconsin's newest member - Steve!

2010-08-11T11:20:00.005-06:00

My name is Steve Elliott, and I am very happy to be joining the SmokeFree Wisconsin team as the Policy and Grassroots Specialist. My background is in grassroots organizing, campaign management and political advocacy, and I've worked with various levels of government, from the county level to federal elected officials and agencies. I'm looking forward to working with all of you, to raise awareness, hold elected officials accountable and make sure that everyone has the ability to choose a safe and healthy lifestyle.

Wisconsin is now the third state that I have lived in as smoke-free laws were passed and enacted. Because of the efforts of you and this organization, my 2-year old daughter, Alice, will have the opportunity to grow up in a healthier, cleaner environment. I look forward to joining in blog discussions as we all pursue the best and healthiest Wisconsin possible.

The smoke-free air law is leading to fewer businesses selling cigarettes, creating healthier communities - greenbaypressgazette.com

2010-08-10T13:20:00.011-06:00

The Green Bay Press Gazette: Many area businesses are decreasing their cigarette sales and the number of sales permits for cigarettes is also down. Officials believe the new law is one contributor to this decrease and expect the numbers to continue to fall.

Click here to read full article.

TV Interview on Decreased Teen Smoking Rates

2010-08-09T12:50:00.006-06:00

You can watch SmokeFree Wisconsin's Maureen Busalacchi's live TV interview here. She was on WKOW 27 News Friday, August 6th at 5 p.m. to discuss the drop in Wisconsin’s teen smoking rate.

The decreased rates are incredibly encouraging, but the work continues to make sure these rates don't rise again.

Enjoy the interview!

Youth Smoking Rates Fall

2010-08-06T14:34:00.009-06:00

Great news from the 2010 Wisconsin Youth Tobacco Survey (YTS)!

Smoking rates among high school and middle school teens are down significantly! In 2010, 15 percent fewer high-schoolers are lighting up than in 2008 and the number of middle school smokers fell by nine percent. This means literally thousands of teens will be prevented from walking down the road to a lifetime of addiction and thousands of lives will be saved from premature death. The lower rates are evidence the cigarette tax is working, but these gains will be lost if tobacco control efforts aren't maintained.

Wisconsin Department of Health Services press release on YTS

WKBT-TV coverage of YTS

Kenosha News

2010-07-28T08:15:00.002-06:00

Kenosha News: The public safety and welfare committee is considering adopting the statewide smoke-free law on the local level to ensure compliance and ease of enforcement.

Milwaukee adopts stricter rules regulating smoking in public places - JSOnline

2010-07-28T08:08:00.001-06:00

Milwaukee adopts stricter rules regulating smoking in public places - JSOnline

Great news out of Milwaukee! They adopted a strong definition of enclosed place which ensures that all workers and patrons will be protected from the proven hazards of secondhand smoke.

Just Announced Concerts: SMOKE FREE SOUNDS SERIES: Jason & The Haymakers @ Raytown Roadhouse in Racine � True Endeavors Presents:

2010-07-28T08:05:00.001-06:00

Just Announced Concerts: SMOKE FREE SOUNDS SERIES: Jason & The Haymakers @ Raytown Roadhouse in Racine � True Endeavors Presents:

Make sure you try to make it out to a smoke-free venue near you and enjoy the smoke-free sounds!

No smoke tipster hotline is pretty quiet

2010-07-27T10:54:00.000-06:00

No smoke tipster hotline is pretty quiet

Nice audio clip on the lack of issues with compliance with the statewide smoke-free air law. This is good news!

Some restaurant, tavern owners say customers have been adjusting to smoking ban | wisconsinrapidstribune.com | Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune

2010-07-26T11:30:00.000-06:00

Some restaurant, tavern owners say customers have been adjusting to smoking ban | wisconsinrapidstribune.com | Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune

Business owners and patrons prepared for over a year for the state-wide law to come into effect. It seems that waiting period has helped ease the transition to smoke-free workplaces. As patrons and business owner adjust the satisfaction with this law will increase.

Extinguish this idea - JSOnline

2010-07-23T09:37:00.000-06:00

Extinguish this idea - JSOnline

Interesting editorial discussing the idea of repealing the statewide law that is less than a month old.

Public health and safe workplaces should be a priority of every elected official.

Introducing our newest staff member- Emily!

2010-07-22T09:00:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone!

My name is Emily Rohloff and I am SmokeFree Wisconsin’s newest member! I will soon be taking over much of the blogging for SmokeFree so I wanted to introduce myself. I am currently SFW’s Communications Specialist. I started my career as a TV reporter but am now excited to move into the area of health-related communications. I am passionate about making sure EVERYONE has the chance to live a healthy lifestyle and am excited about being part of a team working towards this goal. I’ll update the blog multiple times a week with different news articles for you to read or just some things for you to think about and will also ask all of you for your comments on how you feel about various topics. I’m very excited to get started and to keep you all informed with what’s happening in our newly smoke-free state!

Smoking ban has mixed effects on city

2010-07-21T12:18:00.000-06:00

Smoking ban has mixed effects on city

Mostly positive article out of Shell Lake in Washburn County. Excellent earned media efforts on behalf of Brette of the Northwest Tobacco-Free Coalition.

Citizen Speaks Out Against Gubernatorial Candidates' Desire to Repeal Smoke-Free Air

2010-07-15T09:00:00.001-06:00

Earlier this week, we asked your thoughts regarding the gubernatorial candidates' statements concerning statewide smoke-free air.

One citizen has shared her opinion in the Journal Times:

The back-and-forth was amusing enough, but we would have wished that the two gubernatorial candidates had taken a pass on re-debating this issue and regarded it as a Supreme Court candidate might have — that it was settled law.

Wisconsin became the 28th state to adopt such a ban, and it has seen several municipalities in the state go through withdrawal with their own municipal bans on smoking in restaurants, taverns and other establishments before the statewide ban went into effect.

All of them survived the withdrawal pains and we are confident that the state, too, will endure the brief discomfort and come out on the other side with fresher, cleaner establishments that encourage customers to enter their doors without imperiling their health.

Click here for the complete editorial.

Smoke-Free Air Compliance: One City's Strategy for Handling Smoking Complaints

2010-07-14T09:00:00.003-06:00

With statewide smoke-free air secured just ten days ago, there is still some confusion regarding how and by whom enforcement will occur.

The Shawano County Sheriff's Department has taken a proactive approach by clarifying how it plans to enforce the smoking ban.

Read the full article here: http://www.shawanoleader.com/articles/2010/07/12/news/news1.txt.

Repeal smoke-free air? Some Gubernatorial Candidates Speak On Smoke-Free Air

2010-07-12T14:31:00.000-06:00

With Wisconsin going smoke-free on July 5th, less than a week later, two candidates for governor came out publicly stating that they would repeal the newly implemented policy. Both County Executive Scott Walker and Former Congressman Mark Neumann stated that if elected, they would repeal this important public health policy.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett has not expressed support for a repeal of Wisconsin's smoke-free air law.

Other candidates for Governor has not made public statements in regards to this policy.

Advocates fought long and hard for smoke-free air protections. The policy is still fresh and new; the thought of a repeal is disheartening.

Question of the Week: "Do you think the statewide smoking ban will have the dire economic effect on bars and restaurants that many have predicted?" | sheboyganpress.com | Sheboygan Press

2010-07-12T14:08:00.000-06:00

Question of the Week: "Do you think the statewide smoking ban will have the dire economic effect on bars and restaurants that many have predicted?" | sheboyganpress.com | Sheboygan Press

Interesting article out of Sheboygan on whether or not the economic doom and gloom of the smoke-free air would materialize.

Research shows that businesses thrive in a smoke-free environment.What do you think? Submit your thoughts in our comments section.

WSJ: Casinos should go smoke-free

2010-07-09T12:35:00.000-06:00

Today the Wisconsin State Journal editorialized on the need for smoke-free protections for Tribal Casinos in the state.

Click here to read the article.

All workers, no matter who controls the workplace, deserve smoke-free air!

Good work WSJ for calling attention to this important issue.

Health Officials Continue Fight Against Smoking - WBAY-TV Green Bay-Fox Cities-Northeast Wisconsin News

2010-07-08T11:15:00.000-06:00

Health Officials Continue Fight Against Smoking - WBAY-TV Green Bay-Fox Cities-Northeast Wisconsin News

There is so much more work to do in tobacco control. It's important to remember that smoke-free environments are one element of comprehensive tobacco prevention and control.

This article explains the burden Wisconsin still faces. With a program as under-funded as ours- the work must continue.

Wisconsin Smoking Ban: Smoking ban enforcement in Wisconsin varies from city to city - WITI

2010-07-07T09:26:00.000-06:00

Wisconsin Smoking Ban: Smoking ban enforcement in Wisconsin varies from city to city - WITI

Nice story about the enforcement efforts under way in Waukesha and Milwaukee.

Remember 1-800-NO-SMOKE and www.wibettersmokefree.com are two places you can report non-compliance.

EDITORIAL: Welcome to smoke-free Wisconsin | wausaudailyherald.com | Wausau Daily Herald

2010-07-07T08:55:00.000-06:00

EDITORIAL: Welcome to smoke-free Wisconsin | wausaudailyherald.com | Wausau Daily Herald

Nice editorial our of Wausau. Refutes many common misconceptions about freedoms and government regulation.

Customers breathe easy on first day of Wisconsin's statewide smoking ban | postcrescent.com | Appleton Post Crescent

2010-07-07T08:53:00.000-06:00

Customers breathe easy on first day of Wisconsin's statewide smoking ban | postcrescent.com | Appleton Post Crescent

Nice article out of Appleton. Good Work Emily!

Green Bay bar, restaurant owners talk smoking ban | WFRV Green Bay: Northeast Wisconsin News, Weather and Sports | Local

2010-07-06T11:58:00.000-06:00

Green Bay bar, restaurant owners talk smoking ban | WFRV Green Bay: Northeast Wisconsin News, Weather and Sports | Local

Nice video clip out of Green Bay

Hotline, Web Site for Reporting Smoking Ban Violations - WBAY-TV Green Bay-Fox Cities-Northeast Wisconsin News

2010-07-06T10:57:00.000-06:00

Hotline, Web Site for Reporting Smoking Ban Violations - WBAY-TV Green Bay-Fox Cities-Northeast Wisconsin News

Check out this article on how to report issues of non-compliance.

Sampling of News from 7/5/10

2010-07-06T10:52:00.000-06:00

Below are a few different links to various news stories that ran yesterday.
Channel 13 Video Clip Beloit Area Media

Channel 4 (WTMJ) Video Clip Milwaukee

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Story about quitting

Sheboygan Editorial

Channel 8 La Crosse Video Clip

Did you see other video clips or news stories about Wisconsin going smoke-free? Post your links in the comments section!

Wisconsin GOES SMOKE-FREE

2010-07-05T00:01:00.002-06:00

After 14 long months of waiting TODAY is the day that Wisconsin goes smoke-free! Get out there and celebrate at your favorite establishment. Breath a little easier at your favorite corner tavern. Take in the freshness at that local diner or coffee house. Get out there and enjoy the freedom to breathe clean air.

Remember if you see evidence of smoking in a local establishment call 1-800-NO-SMOKE

Don't feel like talking but have seen evidence of smoking? Log onto www.wibettersmokefree.com

1 more day until a smoke-free Wisconsin

2010-07-04T09:00:00.001-06:00

We have just one more day until a smoke-free Wisconsin!

Getting out and breathing easier is our kind of economic stimulus package.

Get out there and support your local businesses on July 5^th!

2 more days until a smoke-free Wisconsin

2010-07-03T09:00:00.000-06:00

Two more days. The seeds of our activism are about to bloom and grow.

Clean indoor air for everyone! Can you feel the air clearing?

The Staff of SmokeFree Wisconsin are really excited about this law!

2010-07-02T12:21:00.000-06:00

While it took a little convincing, I did get my officemates to share in the excitement that we are so close to being a smoke-free state. After 14 long months we have a lot to celebrate and be excited about!

There is a smoke-free air supporter developing even as we speak!

The excitement is palpable!

We've waited a long time to go smoke-free!

Last but not least.. I know for sure that Wisconsin is going to be just that much better smoke-free!