HU TO HOST TOBACCO AWARENESS FESTIVAL
"Dangers of secondhand smoke is event's focus"

Hampton, VA - In an effort to encourage a tobacco-free lifestyle, Hampton University's Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation will host the "Be Your Best" Summer Fest 2002 on July 17 from noon to 2 p.m. in the Student Center.

"Breathe Clean Air," is this year's theme, and organizers want to increase the awareness of the many dangers of secondhand or environmental tobacco smoke (ETS).

The event, which is free and open to the public, will include exhibits by the Coalition for a Smoke Free Peninsula, American Cancer Society, American Lung Association and many more. Educational materials, T-shirts, and a variety of promotional items will be available.

"In recent years, tobacco use has been increasing among many segments of our population, including adolescents, females, and minorities," said Dr. Marilyn J. Wells, an HU assistant professor. "Many are not aware of the many effects of smoking and secondhand smoke on their own health and the health of those around them."

Some of the short-term effects include asthma, ear infections, tooth decay, facial hair growth for females, infertility for males and females, miscarriages and premature and low birth weight babies. Some long-term effects include heart disease, emphysema, lung and other cancers, osteoporosis, stomach ulcers, cataracts, and hearing loss.

"Many are not aware that there are more than 4,000 chemicals in cigarettes and cigarette smoke, including lead, cyanide, arsenic, formaldehyde (preservative, embalming agent), ammonia (found in fertilizer, household cleaner), acetone (found in nail polish remover), carbon monoxide (found in car exhaust) and many more," Wells said.

Summer Fest 2002 will also include "Be Your Best" information for preventing injury, accessing health care, and responsible sexual behavior.

The event is co-sponsored by Healthy Hamptonians 2010 through a Virginia Department of Health grant. The "Healthy Hamptonians 2010" initiative is in support of our national health agenda "Healthy People 2010." The goals at Hampton University include improving the quality of life through collaborative efforts that promote healthy behaviors and create a healthy environment. The initiative also stresses the importance of reducing health disparities through multidisciplinary efforts that empower individuals to make informed health care decisions and promoting access to high-quality and culturally-competent health care.

For more information, contact Wells at 757-727-5207 or at marilyn.wells@hamptonu.edu