As part of our commitment to creating a healthy and clean environment for all members of our campus community, the College will implement a Tobacco-Free Campus initiative beginning July 1, 2016. With this step, Carroll will join more than 1,100 colleges and universities across America in becoming a 100% tobacco-free campus.
The research on the impact of tobacco use on health is clear. Users are at increased risk of heart disease, lung diseases, and many cancers. In addition, those exposed to second-hand tobacco smoke experience acute and chronic health effects as well. Use of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco remain the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States. Through their representatives in the ASCC and campus surveys, Carroll students have expressed support for this action as it will improve both the health and well-being of our campus. I have attached the policy here.
We are making this announcement now for two important reasons. First, we hope this advanced notice, prior to implementation next summer, will provide those who currently smoke or use smokeless tobacco with sufficient time to take advantage of tobacco cessation resources. Free quit kits are available through the Carroll Wellness Center. Also, Denise Smigaj, our nurse practitioner, can provide information about over-the-counter options for smoking cessation and elimination of the use of smokeless tobacco along with prescriptions that can make the transition to a tobacco-free lifestyle easier. We will also be creating a webpage with links to the new policy, as well as additional tobacco cessation resources.
Second, November 19 is the Great American Smokeout, a national effort by the American Cancer Society to encourage people to quit smoking. As part of this annual event, Dr. Richard Sargent will be on campus on November 16 to give a presentation on the health impacts of tobacco use. The presentation will be at 7 p.m. in O'Connell 107. Students, staff, and faculty are invited to attend.