Many healthcare facilities throughout the country have already made the decision to become tobacco free. We at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center want to make our community a healthier environment for all and reduce the risks of heart, lung and other diseases associated with smoking and tobacco use.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Memorial Medical Center (MMC) becoming a tobacco-free campus?
We wish to create a healthier environment for everyone. Reducing tobacco use is part of MMC's mission as a healthcare institution.
- Where can I smoke?
Nowhere on the MMC campus. MMC will be tobacco free both inside and out. We want to provide a clean and safe environment for all people, patients and visitors. You may choose to leave the property if you desire to use tobacco.
- When did MMC become tobacco free?
The smoke-free/tobacco-free policy went into effect on November 17, 2005.
Tobacco Use Facts
- Leading preventable cause of death and disease in the U.S.
- Leading cause of strokes and heart disease
- Major cause of hospital admissions
- Number one cause of emphysema and cancer
- Smokeless tobacco causes 30,000 oral cancers per year
The effects on inpatients that smoke include:
- Slows wound healing, both surgical and traumatic
- Longer hospital stays
Effects of second-hand smoke:
- Increases the risk of heart disease in non-smokers
- Cause of 7,500-15,000 hospital stays a year
- Responsible for 3,000 lung cancer deaths a year
Points to Ponder
- Tobacco use increases overall healthcare costs.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has classified second-hand smoke as the most toxic substance known to cause cancer in humans.
- Tobacco use and second-hand smoke worsen symptoms of asthma, allergies and bronchitis.
If you wish to stop tobacco use, there are several resources available:
- Tobacco Cessation Classes: 814-534-1990
- PA Free Quitline: 1-877-877-724-1090
- Acupuncture: 814-269-5204
- On the web:www.quitnet.com
Thank you for not using tobacco.