“As long-time advocates for strong regulation of the tobacco industry,
the AMA is honored to stand with President Obama today as he signs the historic
tobacco law. Today’s historic bill signing is a victory for public health
over Big Tobacco.
More than 400,000 Americans die needlessly every year as a direct result
of tobacco use. The actions resulting from this new law may make people think
twice before picking up a cigarette. The sad truth is that tobacco-related
deaths are the number one preventable cause of death in the U.S. Physicians
are working not only to treat diseases like cancer and heart disease that
result from tobacco use, but to prevent them from occurring in the first place.
The new law represents an important break from the past, as it signifies
broad acceptance that nicotine is a drug harmful to people’s health.
Tobacco companies will now have to disclose ingredients and use stronger warning
labels.
New bans on all outdoor tobacco advertising within 1,000 feet of schools
and playgrounds and on tobacco-brand sponsorships of sports and entertainment
events will help keep tobacco advertising away from kids. Approximately 1,000
kids become new, regular smokers every day. These new marketing restrictions
can help keep our kids away from cigarettes so they can become healthy adults.
With this bill signing, President Obama has again demonstrated his commitment
to disease prevention and healthy lifestyles, which are both vital parts of
the overall health reform the AMA is working for this year.”
