American Lung Association Releases 18th Annual “State of Tobacco Control” Report

On January 29, the American Lung Association (Lung.org) released the 18th annual State of Tobacco Control report, which found that, in 2019, Nebraska earned mixed grades on its efforts to reduce and prevent tobacco use, including e-cigarettes. The Lung Association is looking for opportunities in 2020 for Nebraska officials to take action by increasing tobacco taxes, adding e-cigarettes to the smokefree law, and increasing funding for tobacco prevention and control programs in order to support public health and save lives in 2020.

This year’s State of Tobacco Control report calls for proven tobacco control policies in light of the fact that the country’s youth vaping epidemic worsened in 2019. The need for Nebraska to take action to protect youth from all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, is more urgent than ever, with the youth vaping epidemic continuing its alarming rise to 27.5%. This is a staggering 135% increase in high school e-cigarette use in just the past two years, and close to three million more kids started vaping in that time period, setting them up for a lifetime of addiction.

One of the most effective ways to reduce tobacco use, not only among low-income individuals but also for youth is to significantly increase the tax on all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. Multiple studies have shown that every 10% increase in the price of cigarettes reduces consumption by about 4% among adults and about 7% among youth.

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through research, education, and advocacy. To support the work it does, call 1-(800) 586-4872 or visit Lung.org.