What is the Smoke-Free Illinois Act?

On January 1, 2008, the (410 ILCS 82/) Smoke-Free Illinois Act prohibited smoking in virtually all public places and workplaces.

Illinois has taken this important step to protect its residents, workers and visitors from the harmful and hazardous effects of secondhand smoke.

What is the Smoke-Free Campus Act?

On July 1, 2015, the Smoke-Free Campus Act (110 ILCS 64/1) prohibited smoking on each campus of a State-supported institution of higher education.

“Campus” means all property, including buildings, grounds, parking lots, and vehicles that are owned or operated by a State-supported institution of higher education.

“State-supported institution of higher education” means the University of Illinois, Southern Illinois University, Chicago State University, Eastern Illinois University, Governors State University, Illinois State University, Northeastern Illinois University, Northern Illinois University, Western Illinois University, and the public community colleges subject to the Public Community College Act.

What is the Tobacco-Free Campus Policy at UIC?

The Tobacco Free Campus policy at UIC was finalized and implemented in 2013. The policy applies to all forms of tobacco, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, water pipes (hookahs), chew, electronic cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco products. The Tobacco Free Campus policy applies twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week to everyone on UIC property, including students, faculty, staff, patients, contractors, and visitors.

Where can I go to get help to stop smoking?

Ask your primary physician for assistance and support.

When you call 1-800-QUIT-NOW , you can speak confidentially with a highly trained quit coach.
1-800-QUIT-NOW
(1-800-784-8669)

Tobacco Treatment Center at UI Heath can help you quit smoking.
866.600.CARE

How does smoking affect my health?

Smoking Damages Blood Vessels and Raises Blood Pressure

Other diseases associated with tobacco use:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart attack
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Aortic aneurysm

People Who Smoke Are 12 to 13 Times More Likely to Die From COPD

Lung illnesses associated with tobacco use:

  • Flu
  • Pneumonia
  • Bronchitis
  • Covid-19
  • Emphysema
  • COPD

As soon as you start quitting, your body begins to recover from the damage caused by using tobacco. Over time, quitting lowers your risk for smoking related diseases and can add years onto your life. No matter how much or how long you’ve used tobacco, it’s never too late to quit.