The IOM found that if all states were to raise the minimum age of sale for all tobacco products to 21, there would be a 12 percent decrease in cigarette smoking prevalence across the nation by 2100. Only a quarter of those surveyed said they somewhat or strongly opposed the idea. The CDC says Alabama, Alaska, New Jersey, and Utah set the minimum age at 19. Hawaii is the only state that prohibits the purchase of tobacco products to anyone under 21. That bill is being considered by the Assembly. Additionally, several cities and counties across the USA have adopted laws raising the minimum age to 21, starting with Needham, Massachusetts, in 2005.
Advertisement
Brian King, acting deputy director for research translation at the Center for Disease Control’s Office on Smoking and Health, highlighted the health benefits that could come from such an increase. Although no studies have yet assessed the effect of this policy change, the study authors noted that other moves to restrict tobacco sales to minors have had a beneficial effect. Previously, the minimum age was 18. In addition, 73% of blacks, 75% of whites, 76% of Latinos and 78% of people from other racial groups said they would support such a move.
One factor that did make a difference was smoking status. People who begin smoking at a young age are more likely to become addicted, to progress to daily use, to smoke more as they grow into adulthood, and to have trouble quitting.
The WHO is marking Philippines as the standard model to follow- the government there has steadily increased tobacco taxes and earmarked 15 per cent of the new levies to support tobacco farmers and workers in building new livelihoods – a move which has been both profitable and yet ensured a drop in number of smokers.
The survey results were published online Tuesday by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
Advertisement
A state lawmaker is pushing to raise the minimum age to buy tobacco products.
