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OUR RESPONSIBILITY
By Chavvah McCoy
Before I started working with the KABF Tobacco Prevention Program
a year ago, I knew that tobacco was harmful for a number of reasons.
I was aware that tobacco use puts people at an increased risk for
lung cancer. I was sure that secondhand smoke was bad, if only for
the reason that it gave me headaches and irritated my friend’s
asthma. What I didn’t realize at the moment, though, was my
responsibility to help others make positive decisions for their
health.
My knowledge of the dangers of tobacco should have kept me from
wanting to try a cigar. My understanding that nicotine is an addiction
should have led me to encourage friends to get help to quit smoking.
My awareness on the health hazards of secondhand smoke should have
compelled me to ask my favorite restaurant to provide a smoke-free
environment for patrons and workers alike. Unfortunately, education
can only do so much. Once I began working with the Tobacco Prevention
Program at KABF 88.3 FM, the light turned on in my head. I realized
that knowledge of any kind is great, but acting on that information
can take you a lot further.
Perhaps you’re in the same situation I once was—full of
knowledge, but not using it to help yourself or someone else. We
each have a responsibility to educate others who don’t have
the same understanding we possess on the various issues of tobacco.
Once we educate, we must also allow ourselves to be agents of change.
Here are some ideas to help you get started:
1. Speak up the next time you’re tempted to look the other
way when your friend lights up in front of your child. You’ll
protect a loved one from secondhand smoke and you’ll also get
someone to think about his/her personal health.
2. Offer support to your co-worker who wants to quit smoking by
suggesting tobacco cessation programs that he/she may want to join.
By doing this, you’ll show your support of his/her decision
to pursue a healthier life.
3. Talk with your manager about developing a tobacco-free workplace.
That way, you and your co-workers will be healthier by working in
smoke-free environment.
Let’s do what we can to encourage positive change. Let’s
continue in the effort to create a healthier community—it’s
our responsibility.
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