Tennessee Makes Significant Strides in Protecting Citizens From Impacts of Tobacco Use

Tennessee has made significant progress in efforts to reduce deaths and illness caused by tobacco use, according to the American Lung Association’s “State of Tobacco Control 2007” report. The report credits Tennessee’s dedicated efforts to enact the Non-Smokers Protection Act and increase cigarette taxes for the improved grades on this national report card.

“Protecting Tennessee citizens, workers and visitors from the deadly effects of cigarette smoke is a priority, and I am pleased the American Lung Association is praising us for our advances in this crucial area,” said Governor Phil Bredesen. “We will continue our work to improve the health of Tennesseans and reduce rates of tobacco use in our state.”

Tennessee’s most significant progress, according to the ALA report, was made in smoke-free air. ALA gave Tennessee a grade of “B” this year, a dramatic improvement over a grade of “F” in 2006. The full ALA report is available online at http://www.stateoftobaccocontrol.org.

“Tobacco use is the number one cause of preventable death in Tennessee, and we know our work to reduce the number of smokers in our state will have a dramatic impact on the health of our citizens,” said Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, Commissioner of Health. “We will continue to work with Governor Bredesen and the General Assembly to support efforts to curb tobacco use in Tennessee, and to offer assistance to Tennesseans who want to improve their lives by stopping this deadly habit.”

Statistics prove the positive results of Tennessee’s efforts to stop tobacco use and show the state’s citizens are on the path to healthier lives. Adult smoking rates in Tennessee dropped from 26.8 percent in 2006 to 22.6 percent in 2007. Smoking rates for state’s youth also improved. High school student smoking rates fell from 26.3 percent to 25.5 percent in the same time period, and middle school smoking rates dropped from 16.6 percent to 9.7 percent.

Tennesseans who wish to quit smoking may get support by calling the Tennessee Tobacco QuitLine. This free counseling service offers customized assistance to help callers stop use of cigarettes and other tobacco products. QuitLine staffers are available seven days a week at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669.) For more information on quitting tobacco use and the Tennessee Tobacco QuitLine, visit the Web site at http://health.state.tn.us/tobaccoquitline.htm.

Assistance is also available for uninsured residents who wish to stop smoking. You may contact your local county health department for information on smoking cessation services. Find your county health department on the TDOH Web site at http://health.state.tn.us/localdepartments.htm.