By Stephen Koranda, KPR
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kcur/local-kcur-940124.mp3
Topkea, KS – The top health officer in Kansas is warning smokers to take notice of a recently released report on the dangers of smoking.
The report from the U.S. Surgeon General shows that smoking and second-hand smoke cause immediate damage to the heat and lungs.
State Health Officer Dr. Jason Eberhart-Phillips says that increases the likely hood of heart attacks and strokes.
"What this new report helps us see is exactly how tobacco smoke, even brief exposures to it, causes serious disease," says Eberhart-Phillips.
Eberhart-Phillips says the state offers help to smokers who want to quit, with free counseling and free nicotine patches. Smokers who want help quitting can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.