Secretary-designee Kirsten Johnson | Wisconsin Health Care Association Website
Secretary-designee Kirsten Johnson | Wisconsin Health Care Association Website
Saturday, July 5 marks the 15th anniversary of Wisconsin's smoke-free indoor air law. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is highlighting the impact it has had on public health in the state.
"Whether working a shift at a local restaurant or heading out with family for a Friday fish fry, Wisconsinites and visitors to our state can rest easy knowing they won't be exposed to secondhand smoke in public places," said State Health Officer and Division of Public Health Administrator Paula Tran. She noted that "smoke-free businesses have become so normal for today's kids, it's hard for them to believe that smoking was once allowed in Wisconsin restaurants or on airplanes."
The law not only cleans the air but also helps create tobacco-free environments for children, discouraging them from using tobacco products. Additionally, these laws are associated with fewer health issues and hospital stays among those exposed to secondhand smoke, such as restaurant and bar workers.
Secondhand smoke contains over 7,000 harmful chemicals, including 70 known carcinogens. It is responsible for more than 53,000 deaths annually among U.S. non-smokers and contributes to serious health problems like coronary heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. Children exposed to it face higher risks of sudden infant death syndrome and respiratory infections.
According to DHS data, seventy-five percent of Wisconsinites support the state's smoke-free air law. This legislation has also contributed to decreased smoking rates in Wisconsin; adult smoking dropped from 19% in 2010 to 12% today, while high school student smoking fell from 17% to just 3%.
"Wisconsin's smoke-free law has stood the test of time," continued Paula Tran. She emphasized its importance for ensuring residents continue enjoying smoke-free environments.
For more information on DHS's efforts against commercial tobacco use in Wisconsin or resources available through the Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line (800-QUIT-NOW), visit dhs.wisconsin.gov/tobacco.
Questions from media representatives can be directed to DHSMedia@dhs.wisconsin.gov
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