The war against tobacco has taken on a new dimension as parts of the country report high rates of cigarette smoking and smokeless tobacco use among adults. The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal disturbing trends in smoking prevalence as more individuals use multiple tobacco products to satisfy their nicotine addiction. No tobacco product is safe to consume. The health hazards associated with tobacco use are well-documented and a recent American Heart Association policy statement indicates smokeless tobacco products increase the risk of fatal heart attack, fatal stroke and certain cancers. Furthermore, smokeless tobacco products are not a safe alternative to cigarettes despite claims from tobacco marketers and should not be used as a cessation aid.

As tobacco’s financial and health implications continue to plague many communities, we urge elected officials to support increases in tobacco excise taxes, provide adequate funding for tobacco cessation and prevention programs that meet or exceed CDC recommendations, pass and protect comprehensive smoke-free air laws, and ensure implementation of FDA regulation of tobacco. These measures have proven successful in states with the lowest smoking rates. To view the CDC report, visit www.cdc.gov/mmwr