#United States #Chicago #American Lung Association #Tobacco Control #Federal Rollbacks

The State of Tobacco Control: A Call to Action

The American Lung Association (ALA) has released its 24th annual State of Tobacco Control report, emphasizing a significant concern for public health in the face of recent federal policy changes. The report raises an urgent alarm regarding what it describes as the most drastic federal rollback of tobacco prevention efforts seen in decades. This shift jeopardizes the progress made in combating tobacco use, which remains the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States, claiming more than 490,000 lives annually.

Current Landscape of Tobacco Usage

Despite a decline in adult smoking rates from 23.3% in 2000 to 10.8% in 2023, the fight against tobacco abuse is far from over. The emergence of highly addictive products, particularly among youth, raises alarm. Approximately 2.25 million middle and high school students continue to engage in tobacco usage, with an overwhelming 90% of youth e-cigarette users favoring flavored products. The consequences are costly, with tobacco-related issues costing the U.S. $600 billion in healthcare and lost productivity every year.

The report categorizes federal efforts into five pivotal areas and assigns grades that highlight alarming failures:
1. Federal Regulation of Tobacco Products - Grade D
2. Coverage of Quit Smoking Treatments - Grade D
3. Tobacco Tax Rates - Grade F
4. Mass Media Campaigns - Grade I (Incomplete)
5. Funding for Tobacco Prevention - Grade B

The incomplete status in mass media campaigns points to the government's failure to convey effective cessation messages.

Key Federal Concerns

In 2025, notable changes undermined tobacco control and prevention frameworks. The ALA noted the dismantling of crucial initiatives, such as the CDC's Office on Smoking and Health, staffing reductions at the FDA's Center for Tobacco Products, and delays in Congress-allocated funds. These actions have left state-level tobacco programs vulnerable, leading to reduced smoking cessation support and prevention resources. "These unprecedented disruptions will embolden the tobacco industry to expand its predatory marketing and put more lives at risk," commented Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association.

Urgent Recommendations for Change

The State of Tobacco Control report urges both the federal government and state leaders to take immediate actions:
1. Restore the CDC's Office on Smoking and Health: Ensure it receives necessary funding to lead federal tobacco prevention strategies and metrics.
2. Revitalize the Tips from Former Smokers Campaign: Fund this initiative to resume effective public health messaging.
3. Protect the USPSTF's independence: Guarantee access to evidence-based services for tobacco cessation.
4. Implement User Fees for E-Cigarette Manufacturers: Generate funding for the FDA to strengthen oversight and enforcement regarding tobacco products.
5. Maintain rigorous public health standards: In reviewing new tobacco products, prioritize the health of children and the overall public.

Such steps are critical to reversing the troubling trajectory of tobacco-related health issues. The report also grades states on their tobacco control measures, showing pronounced disparities.

State-by-State Performance

Grading states reveals a picture of uneven commitment to tobacco control:

• - Best Performing: California, Colorado, and Massachusetts received commendable scores in areas like smokefree laws and access to cessation services.
• - Worst Performing: Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and Texas received failing grades across all metrics, demonstrating a lack of effective tobacco control measures.
• - Most Improved: Maine and Montana made strides in taxing and funding tobacco prevention initiatives effectively.

Conclusion

The American Lung Association’s report underscores the immediate need for restoration and enhancement of tobacco control programs. The rollback of federal efforts cannot be overlooked, and local leaders must step up to fill the gaps for the continued health and safety of the public. The future of public health hinges on our response to this crisis. For further details and to participate in advocacy efforts, visit Lung.org/sotc.

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is dedicated to saving lives through the enhancement of lung health and the prevention of lung disease. By championing clean air, advocating for healthy living, and battling lung diseases, they are committed to the goal of a tobacco-free future.