Among all people over age 18 Maine's smoking rate is the 11th highest in the nation. This is a performance measure because cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in Maine. 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.
We have moved toward the benchmark. We have moved away from the benchmark. No significant movement either way. GOLD STAR Exceptional performance. RED FLAG Needs attention.