August 17, 2006

State Journal-Register
Letter to the Editor
Via e-mail

To the Editor:

The Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) and the Sangamon County Medical Society would like to applaud the Sangamon County Board for passing an ordinance to enact a comprehensive smoking ban in the unincorporated areas of Sangamon County.

Every day, eight people in Illinois die from the effects of secondhand smoke. In addition, children who are exposed to secondhand smoke have higher rates of respiratory infections and increased number and severity of asthma attacks. Studies also show that employees who are exposed to large amounts of secondhand smoke at work suffer from higher rates of lung cancer and heart disease than the general public.

This smoking ban ordinance demonstrates a solid commitment to protecting healthy non-smokers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke. We have seen an overwhelming amount of support for smoke-free communities in Illinois and will encourage other communities to inform the public of these risks. Together we can work toward a healthier and smoke-free environment for all Illinoisans.

Sincerely,

Peter E. Eupierre, M.D.
President, Illinois State Medical Society

Leonard Giannone, M.D.
President, Sangamon County Medical Society

Twenty North Michigan Avenue, Suite 700 Chicago, Illinois 60602 Web site: www.isms.org
Telephone: 312-782-1654 Toll Free: 800-782-ISMS Fax: 312-782-2028