This is a performance measure because cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in Maine. Smoking among people aged 18 to 34 is particularly relevant because people of this age are most likely to be passing detrimental effects of smoking on to children. This age group will also be part of the labor force for years to come, and it has been shown that workers who smoke are more costly to employers.
Smoking is known to cause heart disease, emphysema, and several types of cancer.
For related data, visit our links page. We have moved toward the benchmark. We have moved away from the benchmark. No significant movement either way. GOLD STAR Exceptional performance.