Many Americans have either personally experienced a family member or friend die from a smoking related death.

The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) is leading a statewide campaign intended to educate Mississippians about the dangers of secondhand smoke.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) presented the MSDH with a $2.9 million grant to aid in the education of Mississippians on the benefits of smoke-free air.

“Secondhand smoke contains dangerous particles that can contribute to lung cancer, heart disease and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome,” said Dr. Mary Currier, state health officer, in a press release.

“We’ve all been touched by cancer and have loved ones who have paid the cost of their tobacco addictions. We also believe many smokers may not realize they’re putting others in danger by smoking and producing smoke that others inhale, even if for just a short time. It’s time for a better environment and future for our families.”

Every Mississippian has the right to breathe clean, smoke-free air according to Dr. Currier.

The campaign’s goal is to complete a twoyear campaign that will inform Mississippians about the benefits of smoke-free air, educate residents about the harmful effects of breathing secondhand smoke, and support a comprehensive statewide smoke-free air law.

In addition to MSDH, other Mississippi health advocate organizations are working on the campaign. The campaign will include extensive grassroots efforts, a statewide media campaign, and collaboration with key partners to support the passage of a comprehensive smoke-free air law.

A recent study in Starkville showed a 27 percent decrease in heart attacks in the city after the implementation of a smoke-free air ordinance, according to the press release. The study focused on Starkville residents in the three-year span after the law went into effect, compared to three years prior. It showed fewer heart attacks being treated at the Oktibbeha County Hospital following the implementation of the smoke-free air ordinance.

Each year in Mississippi, smoking accounts for an estimated 5,200 premature deaths, including 550 deaths among nonsmokers as a result of secondhand smoke according to the press release.