American Cancer Society Endorses Bold and Innovative Action Plan to Reduce Smoking

2/14/2003

From: Rachel Tyree of the American Cancer Society, 202-661-5707; e-mail: rachel.tyree@cancer.org WASHINGTON, Feb. 14 -- Following is a statement by John R. Seffrin, PhD, chief executive officer, the American Cancer Society and appointed member of the HHS Interagency Committee on Smoking and Health Cessation Subcommittee: "In today's depressed economy and ballooning deficits, it is time that we look at other viable options to help fund tobacco control programs and other health care initiatives that protect the health of all Americans. On Tuesday, the Cessation subcommittee of the Interagency Committee on Smoking and Health to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, recommended to Secretary Tommy Thompson, a $2 dollar federal tax increase on cigarettes. The tax increase is one of ten recommendations by the subcommittee aimed at reducing tobacco use in the U.S. The proposed tax increase could prevent 3 million premature deaths while helping millions of others quit smoking. "Cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. More than 440,000 people die from smoking related illnesses annually, including 124,000 from lung cancer. Additionally, the financial toll on federal and state budgets is substantial. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the price tag for smoking is $75.5 billion a year in direct health care costs and another $81.9 billion in lost productivity. "The CDC, National Cancer Institute and the U.S. Surgeon General have all cited cigarette tax increases as a proven means of cutting smoking rates. Higher cigarette prices lead to declines in cigarette purchases and smoking, especially among youth. Further, studies show that a 10 percent increase in price reduces youth smoking by seven percent and overall cigarette consumption by four percent. "While the recommended tax increase has received most of the attention from the media, the report represents a comprehensive, science-based approach to reducing tobacco use in all segments of the population. The subcommittee's report also includes recommendations for a national quitline, support for training, improvements in health care coverage, research, and public-private partnerships that could be implemented by the federal government as well as the public and private sectors. The action steps proposed, if implemented, would significantly reduce the death and disease caused by tobacco use. "The American Cancer Society commends Secretary Thompson for appointing the Cessation subcommittee. The Society endorses the report as submitted and encourages the Bush Administration and Congress to move swiftly in implementing these life-saving action steps. The federal government can play a key role in protecting the public health by implementing the recommended tobacco tax increase. The Administration now has a tremendous opportunity at hand to show its commitment to protecting the health of all Americans. In the long term, the entire nation will benefit from the increased revenues and lives saved." The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 17 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit http://www.cancer.org.