Introduced by: George L. Bradley, DO – Delegate, Gaston County Medical Society
Referred to: Reference Committee No. 1 – Timothy M. Beittel, MD, Chair
WHEREAS, the term “third-hand smoke” refers to residual nicotine and other chemicals left on a variety of indoor surfaces by tobacco smoke; and
WHEREAS, studies have concluded that residual nicotine from tobacco smoke can react with chemicals in indoor surfaces, such as clothing and furniture, to form pollutants and carcinogenic chemical compounds; and
WHEREAS, 69 of the 250 chemicals that are known to be harmful in tobacco smoke are carcinogenic; and
WHEREAS, published research that supports emphasizing that third hand smoke is potentially dangerous to children is an important means to encouraging individuals to refrain from smoking in the home; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the North Carolina Medical Society supports patient education regarding the dangers of “third-hand smoke,” which refers to residual nicotine and other chemicals left on a variety of indoor surfaces by tobacco smoke. (policy)
Fiscal Note: No additional funding above current resources estimated. Current resources will be allocated based on the priorities of the Society and the NCMS budget.
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at 9:13 am
Seems reasonable but I think the indoor-smoking public is relatively indifferent to all such messages.
at 1:20 pm
Agreed. The issue of allergic sensitivities to these residues should be part of this as well. We should also move for a significant increase in the cigarette tax which can be used for needed healthcare deficiencies. The tax is the most effective way to stop people from starting to smoke and encourage people to quit. Requiring nicotine levels to be low enough to reduce chances of addition should also be championed.