“Healthy Holmes Healthy Communities”

Governor Charlie Crist has proclaimed March 21 through March 28 as Tobacco Free Florida Week to promote the Florida Quitline and local cessation services while raising awareness of the impact of secondhand smoke among at-risk populations.

During the week, Floridians will be encouraged to recommend friends and loved ones to contact the Florida Quitline for help in overcoming their addition.

“Tobacco Free Florida Week is a statewide call to action that is essential in spreading the word about the dangers of secondhand smoke,” said Kim Berfield, Deputy Secretary of the Florida Department of Health.

Statistics from The Florida Bureau of Tobacco Prevention shine light on the prevalence of tobacco usage within Holmes County.  Survey results show that 62.7 percent of county middle school students and 62.1 percent of county high school students confirmed exposure to secondhand smoke.  In 2008, 21.4 percent of mothers reported smoking during their pregnancy and current estimates suggest that there has been no significant decline in these percentages. 

“According to the CDC, secondhand smoke is estimated to cause 50,000 deaths per yearand contains more than 250 toxic chemicals including 50 that can lead to cancer,” said Holmes County Health Director Holly Segers. “There is no safe level of secondhand smoke. Protect yourself and those around you. Refer a friend or family member to the Florida Quitline at 1.877.U.CAN.NOW or online at www.floridaquitline.com. For more information about Tobacco Free Florida, visit www.tobaccofreeflorida.com