Surveys of First Nations people across the country (including the people of Sliammon) are teaching us that:
- More than half (57%) of all First Nations people are smokers. This is more than double the number of non-native smokers (18%).
- The number of First Nations women that are smokers is even higher - 63% of women 15 years or older are regular smokers. The number of women smokers in the non-native population is about 21%.
- First Nations children start smoking at about 9 years of age. Non-aboriginal youth start at an average age of 13 years.
- In some First Nations communities, children as young as 5 start using chewing tobacco.
- Cigarette smoke contains 4,000 chemicals, including 50 that may cause cancer.
- Second-hand smoke has twice the nicotine and tar as the smoke that smokers inhale directly from a cigarette.
- 2/3 of the smoke from a burning cigarette is not directly inhaled by the smoker, but released into the room and inhaled by both the smoker and others..
- Second hand smoke causes headaches, dizziness, nausea, wheezing, and eye, nose and throat irritation. AND over the long term, it can produce major consequences-like heart disease, impaired lung function and cancer.
- Closed doors, open windows and air filters are not enough to protect you from second-hand smoke. The only guaranteed way to eliminate the dangers of second hand-cigarette smoke is to stop smoking.
Second-hand smoke is deadly.
A smoke-free Sliammon means our children will have a healthier future.
Cigarette Smoking and Your Health
Smoking one cigarette...
- speeds up your heartbeat
- increases your blood pressure
- upsets the flow of blood and air in your lungs
- causes the temperature of your fingers and toes to drop
Smoking cigarettes can cause...
Cancer - lung cancer, as well as cancer in the mouth, sinuses, throat, brain, breast, uterus, bladder, kidney, thyroid, lymph glands and blood.
Serious ailments - bronchitis, pneumonia, emphysema, strokes, heart disease, heart attacks, ulcers, cataracts, gum disease, tooth decay, ear infections, dry skin, early aging, and impotence.
Respiratory problems - increased coughing, phlegm, wheezing, chest colds and shortness of breath, even in smokers who smoke as little as one cigarette per week.
Asthma - attacks or increased asthma symptoms.
Colder fingers and toes.
A dulled sense of smell and taste.
