Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Release Date:  Immediate Release                                Kill Date:  December 14, 2007

Contact Person:  Ann Goldon                                        Phone:  (810) 341-5898  

RE:  Local teens take on tobacco in school campaign  

            Promoting smoke-free environments and educating junior high students about the dangerous health effects of tobacco are among activities teens at Genesee and Lake Fenton High Schools have underway to prevent, reduce or stop peer smoking. The activities are part of “Fight the Light, Fight for Life  - Stop Tobacco Use ” the anti-tobacco campaign funded by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) through the 2007-08 school year at 27 Michigan high schools.

 “Encouraging teens to live tobacco-free is part of our comprehensive program to improve the health of all Michigan residents,” said Lynda Rossi, BCBSM vice president of public policy and social mission. “We want to do all we can to prevent youngsters from facing serious health conditions later on in life.  BCBSM’s efforts to improve the health of young people range from tackling teen tobacco use to our commitment to the state’s MIChild program, which provides health and dental coverage to eligible children.”

The high school campaign is just one part of BCBSM’s comprehensive tobacco prevention efforts. BCBSM has partnered with the American Lung Association of Michigan and Tobacco Free Michigan (tobaccofreemichigan.org), a grassroots organization dedicated to promoting tobacco-free environments and improving the health and quality of life for Michigan residents through education and advocacy.

Locally, the Genesee County Health Department, is coordinating activities at the Genesee and Lake Fenton High Schools with BCBSM funding.  “Educating the community, our peers and younger students about tobacco and secondhand smoke is exciting and rewarding,” stated Genesee High School student Kelsi King.  

The campaign also directs individuals seeking information or help to the Michigan Tobacco Quitline at 800-QUIT-NOW (800) 784-8669.