tobacco-free on ‘Smokeout Day’

By JAINE TREADWELL

Features Editor

One day does not a non-smoker make, but it is certainly a step in the right direction.

And, Troy State University students, faculty and staff can take a step toward becoming tobacco-free when "TSU Smokeout Day" gets underway on Monday, March 19.

The event is scheduled from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on the Bibb Graves Quad and from 5 until 7 p.m. in Frank’s Place in Stewart Dining Hall.

"TSU Smokeout Day" is a part of an going effort to encourage healthy lifestyles among students, faculty and staff.

"Information about the dangers of tobacco use was distributed in the Adams University Center throughout February," said Susan Pierce, director of student development.

Local doctors have been meeting with campus groups to discuss tobacco use and other health issues. A series of smoking-cessation classes will begin in April.

"We need one day to really focus our efforts and kick off our healthy lifestyle campaign," Pierce said. "’TSU Smokeout Day’ will bring attention to the health threat posed by the use of all kinds of tobacco products."

Pierce said a survey of TSU students last fall showed that tobacco use is widespread on campus. And, more than

60 percent of those in the survey said they would like to quit.

"We have to ensure that we do a good job educating the students about the many problems associated with tobacco use," she said. "But we hope to reduce tobacco use by everyone on campus – faculty and staff as well as students."

Everyone in the TSU family is encouraged to avoid using tobacco products all day Monday.

Several activities are scheduled as part of TSU Smokeout Day.

Participants can exchange their tobacco products for prizes at both the Bibb Graves Quad and in Frank’s Place. Participants will also be able to register for smoking cessation classes, set to begin on campus April 10.

In addition to the anti-tobacco efforts, other healthy lifestyle information and services will be available on Bibb Graves Quad.

Participants can receive a free glucose screening and a low-cost cholesterol check. Skin cancer-prevention information will also be available, as well as information about preparing for an exercise program.

"TSU Smokeout Day" is co-sponsored by the university, the Pike County Health Department, Edge Regional Medical Center, Charles Henderson Child Health Center, Pike Internal Medicine and the American Cancer Society.