2001-2003 Program Report
Make Oregon Healthier: Saving Lives and Saving Dollars

Protection from Exposure to Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke is a serious health issue affecting children and adults. It causes about 10% of all tobacco-related deaths, increases the risk of heart disease and lung cancer, and leads to higher rates of asthma, ear infections, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. In 2001, 86% of Oregonians agreed that people should be protected from secondhand smoke.

At work
Smokefree Workplace Law. As a result of Oregon's new clean indoor air law, which was passed by the 2001 legislature, more than 95% of Oregon's workers are now protected from exposure to secondhand smoke in indoor workplaces. Bars, bingo halls, tobacco retailers, bowling centers, and hotel rooms are exempted from the requirement to be smokefree.


At home
Smoking is not allowed in four out of five homes in Oregon. From 1997 to 2001, the percentage of homes where indoor smoking was not allowed increased from 71% to 81%. In 2000, indoor smoking was prohibited in 95% of homes with women who had recently given birth.