Reports show teen smoking down
One-third of all smokers had their first cigarette by the age of 14.
But according to recent studies the number of teen smokers is decreasing.
“National tobacco use has been flat,” said Andrew Cuddihy, Program Director of the American Lung Association South Area.
Cuddihy further cited a Florida Youth Tobacco Survey that states 7.8 percent of state middle school students and 17.3 percent of high school students in 2004 were tobacco users.
“This is below the national average,” Cuddihy said.
Data from the University of Michigan’s “Monitoring the Future” survey also showed that smoking rates among eighth, tenth and 12th grade students have decreased to all-time lows. . . .
Experts point to a variety of societal, environmental and personal factors that must be considered to help prevent youth smoking, and recommend a multi-faceted approach.
“These reductions are the results of many people working on this issue. Clearly more needs to be done and Philip Morris USA looks forward to continuing to work with others to have a positive impact on this issue,” said Jennifer Hunter, vice president, Youth Smoking Prevention and Corporate Responsibility Programs. . . .
Philip Morris USA’s youth smoking prevention efforts consist of a comprehensive approach based on information from public health authorities, as well as guidance from an advisory board of youth development experts.
