An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

28th MDG to be smoke free Nov. 9

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Hrair H. Palyan
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  The 28th Medical Group will be designated a tobacco-free campus beginning Nov. 9, in light of the recently updated Air Force Instruction 40-102, Tobacco Use in the Air Force.

The facilities impacted by the change include: Bldg. 6000 (Medical Clinic); Bldg. 6010 (Veterinary Clinic); and Bldg. 7712 (Heath and Wellness Center). It officials from the 28th MDG stressed that the surrounding parking lots and walkways are also smoke-free areas. The closest location for any tobacco user using those service areas is an enclosed shelter located between the Air Force Financial Services Center and the base Exchange.

Minda Parsons, 28th Medical Operations Squadron performance flight commander, said the mission of the 28th MDG is to prevent disease and treat those who fall ill. Therefore, establishing a tobacco free campus is a good start in making today's Air Force smoke free.

"There are approximately 4,000 chemicals in cigarettes, of which hundreds are toxic," said Parsons. "Studies have proven that smoking can damage the internal functions of organs and can seriously damage the immune system. The impact smoking has on one's ability to have a full and healthy life is enormous."

In addition to all of the health hazards related to smoking, Parsons explained that the 28th MDG leadership is also concerned about the smell and second hand smoke getting into the facility, saying, "No patient wants to be subjected to the awful smell of cigarette smoke when receiving health care."

She added that the idea is to change the social norm of tobacco use.

"It will be more difficult to use tobacco on base, but there are several resources to help individuals quit if they are ready," Parsons said. "It will be up to every member of team Ellsworth to make this implementation successful."

For more information about tobacco use on or near the 28th MDG campus, call Minda Parsons at (605) 385-6250. For more information on quitting smoking, or to sign up for the next smoking cessation class, call the Health and Wellness Center at (605) 385-2349.