American Indian and Alaska Native People
Keepers of Wisdom To
Strengthen the Hearts
Help Your Heart!
Strength, wisdom, and good health are American Indian birthrights. Our
elders taught us many healthy ways that were practiced for many generations.
Over time, some healthy traditions have been traded for unhealthy ways that
increase the chances of getting some diseases.
Heart disease is the leading cause of
death for American Indians and Alaska Natives today. We can do something to
prevent heart disease. One way to keep healthy is not to misuse tobacco.
Tobacco honors life
Tobacco has always been part of our culture. It is used to show respect and
honor, and to seek protection on our daily travels. As a gift of the earth,
tobacco should not be abused.
Harmful effects of tobacco
Chewing, dipping, and cigarette smoking are not the traditional ways to use
tobacco. These ways can lead to a heart attack, cancer, and lung problems. If
you chew or dip tobacco, your sense of taste and smell is reduced. If you
smoke, your loved ones and you are likely to have more colds and coughs. The
smoke from cigarettes can hurt the lungs and hearts of smokers and the people
around them. If no one in your family smokes, all of you will be less likely to
get sick.
If you are not smoking cigarettes, chewing, or dipping tobacco, don't start.
If you are--QUIT! Go to your local clinic for tips on how to quit
smoking, chewing, or dipping tobacco.
Quitting smoking, dipping, or chewing tobacco is the best thing you can
do for your family and yourself. Help clean the air so Mother Earth can
breathe.
Celebrate
good health! Healthy traditions prepare the hearts of tomorrow. Share this
wisdom with your family and others.
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