Everyone should be working toward a smoke-free environment

The use of tobacco for both users and non-users, which include the effects of secondhand smoke and vapor/aerosol exposure, are well established as a negative health concern. Everyone in the Washington County community should be working together to ensure a smoke free environment. This includes vaping which carries real health and safety risks.

As a retired emergency room nurse at Marietta Memorial Hospital, I have seen first hand the effects of smoking on the user and those who share their environment. Users of tobacco products, both cigarettes and e cigarettes (vapes) may experience coughing, nausea, headaches and dizziness.

It has been noted that brain changes related to nicotine exposure may have effects on attention, learning, and memory that promote addiction.

Everyone in Washington County has the ability to engage children, grandchildren, neighbors and friends with information on the dangers of cigarettes and e cigarettes. It is important to inform the community that the Ohio Tobacco Quit Line is a telephone service that is available for FREE to ALL Ohioans regardless of insurance status. Encourage those you care about to call 1-800-QUIT-NOW today.