Clean Air
Millions of Americans are exposed to secondhand smoke every day, which can cause serious health complications and even premature deaths.
In fact, a study from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services found secondhand smoke causes nearly 34,000 premature deaths from heart disease each year in the United States among adults who do not smoke. People who do not smoke, but are exposed to secondhand smoke at home or at work, experience a 25-30% increase in their risk of developing heart disease.
Secondhand smoke can trigger asthma attacks in children and make it difficult to breathe for individuals with lung conditions such as COPD. Smokefree communities establish inclusive spaces where all can enjoy without concern for potential adverse health effects.
The Breathe Free Project believes every person has the right to live, work, dine and play in smokefree communities.
We are dedicated to reducing secondhand smoke exposure by advocating
for policy changes to promote clean air including:
By implementing smokefree laws and policies we can:
- Protect all workers and restaurant patrons from the dangers of secondhand smoke
- Protect children and families from the risks of secondhand smoke where they live, play, and attend school
- Create inclusive communities where all are able to participate
- Reduce death and diseases associated with secondhand smoke
- Motivate people who smoke to quit
- Reduce the number of people who start smoking
Share your thoughts on secondhand smoke: Take a Survey or Share Your Story about how you have been impacted by secondhand smoke.
For more information about the dangers of secondhand smoke visit our Resources page.