Tobacco Control

Armed with the knowledge that tobacco-related diseases, including lung cancer, are responsible for 480,000 deaths each year in the United States, many states are raising the age to purchase tobacco products to 21 to curb youth tobacco use and diminish long-term health effects.

Scientific evidence has shown negative effects of electronic cigarette flavoring agents on the lungs, and deaths have been reported. The widespread availability of vaping products and their popularity among young people present new challenges to legislators and public health advocates.

Recognizing the pervasive health effects of both combustible tobacco and vaping products, some states have proposed legislation that broadly addresses tobacco-related public health issues.