Don't cut state tobacco control funds

I applaud the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, which went into effect on June 22, and is part of a national effort by the FDA to reduce smoking in America. Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in America.

One feature of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act bans the sale of cigarettes containing any characterizing flavors such as fruit, candy or clove. The FDA's ban on candy and fruit-flavored cigarettes highlights the importance of reducing the number of children who start to smoke and who become addicted to dangerous tobacco products.

Flavored tobacco products have become increasingly common in the United States. These products, containing flavors like vanilla, orange, chocolate, cherry and coffee are especially attractive to youth. They are widely considered to be "starter" products, establishing smoking habits that can lead to a lifetime of addiction. Research has shown that 17-year-old smokers are three times more likely to use flavored cigarettes than those over 25.

In New York state, 389,000 youths up to age 17 are projected to die from smoking this year. New York state has a comprehensive tobacco control program that works to save lives, reduce diseases caused by smoking, save money and keep youth from smoking. Further cuts to the New York State Tobacco Control Program would reverse the efforts of the past five years, and we would see the number of deaths among our youth increase dramatically. The number 389,000 may be a statistic, but even one death is a tragedy.

All tobacco products, including flavored tobacco products are as addictive and carry the same health risks as regular tobacco products. Tobacco use and dependence are the leading preventable causes of chronic illness and early death. Preventing and reducing tobacco use are the most important public health actions that can be taken to improve the health of all north country residents.

Donna Repaty

Sackets Harbor