Medical professionals weigh in on I-185
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As members of the St. Luke Community Medical Staff, we see the short and long-term effects of tobacco use every day as we care for patients in the Mission Valley. Dental issues, mouth, throat and stomach inflammation, asthma, emphysema, heart disease, stroke and of course the various cancerous conditions that at the very least cause pain, anxiety and financial stress and more seriously can claim a life.
In World War I, cigarettes were distributed to soldiers to reduce anxiety and were touted for health benefits. Today, we know better, and yet, the large tobacco companies continue to promote the sale and use of this often-lethal product. Although the push to transition to e-cigarettes or “vaping” reduces the ill effects of smoke and combustion, studies have shown that the use of e-cigarettes by young people often leads to smoking cigarettes.
I-185 represents a real opportunity for the citizens of Montana to send a clear message that tobacco has no place in a healthy environment and to support expanded Medicaid which provides healthcare coverage for one in ten Montanans. More than 90 percent of this population has income below the federal poverty line and includes some of our most vulnerable like seniors and children. With Medicaid coverage, they have access to preventative healthcare, which is so important in preventing serious illness.
I-185 is a win-win opportunity. Please go to the polls on Nov. 6 and vote a resounding “yes” to a healthier Montana.
Column signed by: Joanna Billings, DO, Polson; Mariah Bonner, DO, St. Ignatius; Adrian Davis, MD, Polson; Paul Gochis, MD, Polson; Laura Hoganson, MD, Polson; Zach Hovorka, DO, Ronan; Heather Jones, MD, Polson; Kelli Larson, DO, Polson; Tyler Thorson, MD, Polson; Megan Vigil, MD, Ronan; Ed Vizcarra, MD, Ronan; Rob J. Alfiero, PA-C, Polson; Simon Crawford, PA-C, Arlee; Meagan Henderson, PA-C, Polson; Claire Nickless, PA-C, Polson; Mike Schallock, PA-C, Polson; Mary Velk, PA-C, Ronan
