Tobacco Documents Online

CH0.A HEALTH CUMC DExTAL CUNIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT HEALTH EDUCATIQN RENT LEVEtJNC BOARD SANiTATION TRANSPORTATION VITAL STATISTCCS WELFARE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS 383 WASHINGTON AVENUE BELLEVILLE, NEW JERSEY 07109 450-3400 / August 8, 1990 0~i~'Ei~LtF Lorraine H. Kowalski, M.A. Health Educator VNHS 354 Union Avenue Elizabeth, New Jersey 07208 Dear Ms. Kowalski: JOSEPH T. FORNAROTTO Commissloner Although the numbers of people in some groups who smoke cigarettes is dropping, smoking still remains a serious public health problem, especially since it affects so many of our young people. There is a need for more and better programs to enable all of us to• counter the problem. Here in Selleville, we incorporate education about smoking into our school and clinic health education programs, demonstrating the relationship existing between, smoking and hypertension, heart disease, and cancer. In sessions conducted with various clubs and organizations, information about smoking statistics, effects, and methods of quitting is presented. Pertinent materials are, of course, distributed in all instances. we realize, however, that there is a need for a total program that would provide help in: 1. developing a mechanism for prevention interventions. 2. demonstrating the impact of this interaction on changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. 3. reducing the incidence of morbidity and mortality that can be attributed to smoking. If such a program were to undertaken by you, we should be happy to do what we can to cooperate in implementing its goals. Sincerely, Thomas J.~ngo Health Officer 'J G i ~ mQ TJL/cd