Pueblo's Chief Medical Officer Warns of Risks in New Tobacco Products Targeting Youth

As the summer approaches, Pueblo's chief medical officer, Dr. Christine Nevin-Woods, is urging parents to stay vigilant about the dangers of new tobacco products that are targeting young people, including lip balm dispensers, mints, and breath strips that are laced with nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. According to Dr. Nevin-Woods, tobacco companies are bringing out products that are easier for people to start using, with nearly 90 percent of adult smokers becoming addicted to tobacco before the age of 18.

Key Takeaways:

• Nearly 90 percent of adult smokers become addicted to tobacco before the age of 18, with most regretting starting
• More than 5,700 Colorado kids become new daily smokers each year, with one in three likely to die from health problems related to their addiction
• 19 percent of Pueblo County youths smoke cigarettes, compared to 12 percent of Colorado youths
• Almost 15 percent of Pueblo County youths use chewing tobacco, nearly double the Colorado rate
• More than 74.7 percent of Pueblo County teens who tried to purchase tobacco at a store were able to, despite the sale of tobacco to minors being prohibited

Statistics:

• Nearly 90 percent of adult smokers become addicted to tobacco before the age of 18
• More than 5,700 Colorado kids become new daily smokers each year
• 19 percent of Pueblo County youths smoke cigarettes
• 12 percent of Colorado youths smoke cigarettes
• Almost 15 percent of Pueblo County youths use chewing tobacco
• Almost 27 percent of Pueblo County youths smoke cigars
• More than 74.7 percent of Pueblo County teens who tried to purchase tobacco at a store were able

Sources:

• "Pueblo Medical Officer Warns: Don't Fall for New Tobacco Products," The Pueblo Chieftain, June 2011