The launch of the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Tobacco Products and selection of Dr. Lawrence Deyton as the center’s first director represent a swift call to action to protect Americans from the dangers of smoking-related illnesses. We’re pleased the FDA is aggressively moving forward with implementation of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act which will help curb tobacco use among children and reduce their risk for heart disease, stroke and other chronic diseases. With more than 400,000 Americans dying each year of tobacco use, the FDA must not hesitate in holding a renegade industry accountable.

The Center for Tobacco Products will play a major role in efforts to make our nation 100 percent tobacco free, reduce health care costs and create a healthier future for our families. We’re confident Dr. Deyton’s expertise and notable track record in the area of tobacco control and dedication to public health will have a strong impact on the Center’s ability to rein in the tobacco industry’s destructive campaign to addict and harm millions of Americans.