Advocates with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) join Arizonans in mourning the loss of Dr. Leland L. Fairbanks, MD, a pioneer in Arizona’s tobacco control movement and President Emeritus of Arizonans Concerned About Cancer (ACAS). He passed away late Tuesday night at age 94.
Dr. Fairbanks was a leading voice in the tobacco control movement which eventually led to the passage and implementation of the Smoke-Free Arizona Act in 2007. Even after the passage of the law, he remained committed to protecting Arizonans from the dangers of tobacco, advocating for changes to be made to tobacco policies within local municipalities.
“I first met Dr. Fairbanks after Arizona’s statewide smoke-free law had passed,” said Brian Hummell, ACS CAN Arizona Government Relations Director. “His work never stopped. He eventually shifted his focus back to local city halls where he urged leaders to include e-cigarettes in their existing smoke-free ordinances. Dr. Fairbanks leaves an incredible legacy of service, accomplishment, and humility.”
Dr. Fairbanks’ work first began back when smoking was widely allowed at indoor venues such as restaurants, workplaces, and even healthcare facilities. He is widely credited for establishing the first smoke free hospital with the Hopi Tribe.
“Looking back, he probably won the statewide smoke-free campaign for us in 2006,” said Sharlene Bozack, retired ACS CAN Chief Government Relations Officer, Great West Division. “Dr. Fairbanks’ hard work gathering signatures and genuine message about the dangers of tobacco made the difference.”
The law in Arizona now prohibits smoking indoors and within 20 feet of entrances, open windows, and ventilation systems of most enclosed public places and places of employment.
“Dr. Fairbanks was a prime mover in everything we accomplished in eliminating smoking in Arizona,” said Matt Madonna, retired President and CEO, American Cancer Society, Southwest Division.
ACS CAN sends its deepest condolences to the Fairbanks family and friends at this difficult time.
We’re hopeful that lawmakers will remember the spirit and legacy of Dr. Fairbanks to do the right thing, even if difficult, to protect the health of Arizonans as they advance through this legislative session.