Oral

A great deal of public health accomplishments have been achieved since the first Surgeon Generals’ report on the Health Effects of Smoking was released in 1964. Those milestones include: the prohibition of cigarette advertisements on television in 1971, the passage of the first state and local “Clean Indoor Air” laws in 1975, the first Surgeon Generals’ report on the hazards of secondhand smoke exposure in 1986, and prohibition of smoking on all domestic flights in 1989. Despite these significant accomplishments, the tobacco industry continues to prosper and profit. An estimated 20.6% of the adult U.S. population continues to smoke, and 52% of the population is left unprotected from exposure to secondhand smoke in all indoor workplaces and public places. This session will highlight current trends in tobacco control programs and policies, as well as opportunities as a result of recent Federal regulations and legal judgments affecting the tobacco industry. Experts from the fields of advocacy, comprehensive tobacco control program administration, foundations and lawyers will share recent accomplishments, set-backs, and challenges facing the field of tobacco control.

Session Objectives: Discuss the accomplishments in tobacco control, the challenges that continue to face the movement, and the current political environment and industry opposition tactics designed to undermine sound public health laws. Describe the funding realities in tobacco control and prevention programs and gain information on how to sustain comprehensive programs. Identify ways to assist in regulatory process and rule-making around FDA tobacco-related regulations.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)