Despite the American Cancer Society's call for increased funding, Kentucky lawmakers reduced tobacco prevention spending and passed a bill that might push residents back to smoking, according to health advocates.
Sarah Ladd reports for the Kentucky Lantern.
In short:
- Kentucky's tobacco control funding falls $8 million short of what health advocates deem necessary, amidst high lung cancer rates linked to smoking.
- Recent legislation restricts vaping products to those approved or pending U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval, potentially driving an increase in cigarette smoking.
- Advocates emphasize the effectiveness of well-funded tobacco prevention programs in saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.
Key quote:
" ... it's outrageous that lawmakers ignored the urgent need for a significant investment in tobacco prevention and cessation. Lives are at stake."
— Doug Hogan, American Cancer Society
Why this matters:
Tobacco use significantly impacts public health in Kentucky, a state with one of the highest lung cancer rates nationally. Anti-vaping laws, intended to curb the use of e-cigarettes, particularly among youths, might inadvertently push some individuals towards smoking traditional tobacco products. For individuals trying to quit nicotine altogether, the removal of a perceived "lesser evil" option like vaping could diminish their support tools, making relapse into smoking more likely if effective cessation programs are not in place.
