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Cayuga County Warns of Indoor Secondhand Smoke Risks

Cayuga County Health officials issued a press release on September 4, 2025, to raise awareness about the risks associated with secondhand smoke exposure in homes and apartments. The release noted that with colder weather approaching, more residents will be spending time indoors, which could increase exposure to secondhand smoke. It was reported that 18.7% of adults in Cayuga County smoke, making it the second highest rate in Central New York.

The press release highlighted that smoking indoors is harmful to both the smoker and those sharing the living space, including children, older adults, and individuals with preexisting health conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, no amount of secondhand smoke is safe, and it has been linked to respiratory illnesses, heart disease, and cancer.

The release also referenced a 2022 study showing that 62% of multi-unit housing in Cayuga County had smoke-free policies. It was noted that many property landlords and managers have adopted a smoke-free policy in the past year. The information was provided by Onondaga County’s Tobacco Free CNY Program, which aims to reduce illness, disability, and death related to tobacco use and secondhand smoke exposure. Residents seeking more information can visit https://tobaccofreecny.org/ or contact Marie Saba, Public Health Educator, at mariesaba@oncov.net or 315-435-3280.

Source: Cayuga County Health

Source Type: Community

Source Location: Cayuga County

Sep 4, 2025 at 12:37 PM

Community