On Wednesday, January 23, The Lung Association will launch a campaign to help Canadians push their provincial governments to tackle the issue of smoking in cars when children are present. The Association wants provincial governments to ensure people "butt out" if they are driving with kids. Starting on January 23, 2008, Canadians will be able to take part in the campaign by visiting www.cleanairforkids.ca to send a message directly to their provincial representative, Health Minister and Premier. The campaign will run until the end of 2008. "This campaign is about protecting Canada's children from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke," said Nora Sobolov, President and CEO of The Lung Association, "Working together with Canadians, we are confident that action can be taken to ensure kids are not subject to smoking in cars." Tobacco smoke contains over 4,000 dangerous chemicals and carcinogens. Second-hand smoke in vehicles is especially potent when it is concentrated in a confined space. Research shows that children exposed to second-hand smoke are at a higher risk for many health problems. Children and babies who are exposed to second hand smoke on a regular basis are at higher risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), asthma, and ear infections. They are also more likely to develop cancer and heart disease as adults. Second-hand smoke can make symptoms worse for kids who have asthma or a respiratory infection. Additionally, there is growing evidence that kids who are exposed to second-hand smoke before and after birth have more behaviour problems, shorter attention spans, and lower marks at school than their peers who aren't exposed to smoke. Established in 1900, The Lung Association is one of Canada's oldest and most respected health charities, and the leading national organization for science-based information, research, education, support programs and advocacy on lung heath issues.

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