MEDIA RELEASE
Updating a plan to control tobacco use in Hawaii will be the subject of a series of public meetings the state Department of Health, the Tobacco Prevention and Control Trust Fund Advisory Board and the Coalition for a Tobacco Free Hawaii are conducting this month.
The meetings are intended to gather community input to revise and update the current 5-Year Strategic Plan for Tobacco Prevention and Control in Hawaii.
“Hawaii has made substantial progress in reducing health problems caused by smoking and tobacco use,” said Dr. Chiyome Fukino, state health director. “Despite major gains, over 1,000 residents die from tobacco-related diseases, and the costs top $600 million annually. There is still much to do.”
The public is invited to provide comment 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 24 at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Mala Ikena Room, and 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 25 at The Lead Center, 75-170 Hualalai Rd., Kailua-Kona.
The meetings will include review of the 2005-2010 plan and a discussion of new challenges that will shape the 2011-2016 plan.
To RSVP to attend a meeting, e-mail lila.johnson@doh.hawaii.gov. For program details, contact Julian Lipsher, public health educator, (808) 586-4662.
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