Each year, nearly one-half million people in the United States die of a smoking-attributable illness, resulting in 5.6 million years of potential life lost. On average, smoking reduces adult life expectancy by approximately 14 years. Lung cancer is the number one cause of smoking-related deaths followed by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart disease. Additionally, there are almost 9 million people suffering with at least one serious illness from smoking.

 

Consider the effect your smoking habit has on your family and loved ones. Secondhand smoke is the third leading preventable cause of death in America, killing over 53,000 nonsmokers annually. It can cause ear infections and respiratory problems such as asthma in children and it has been linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

 

Smoking also increases your risks of exposure on a job site. Tobacco smoke damages your lungs' ability to protect themselves against other toxic substances you may inhale. The odds of a smoker getting bronchitis, asthma or other lung diseases increases considerably when working with asphalt, coal tar, silica, and other lung hazards.

 

With the start of a New Year, the New England Laborers' Health and Safety Fund urges you to commit to a New Year’s resolution to stop smoking. There are numerous resources that aid in smoking cessation, including a medication called Chantix.  Chantix is a non-nicotine prescription medicine specifically developed to help adults 18and over quit smoking. Studies indicate that up to 44% of Chantix users quit smoking by the end of the 12 week program. Chantix is a covered benefit of the New England Laborers’ prescription plans. Please contact your primary care physician to discuss your options for a smoke free future.