Tobacco sales enforcement campaign to begin.

District Health Department #10 has partnered with the Michigan State Police and Lakeshore Regional Partners to conduct a tobacco compliance campaign called No Cigs for Our Kids. Over the next several months, undercover tobacco compliance checks will be completed at all tobacco vendors throughout Oceana, Lake, and Mason counties. The campaign is intended to educate vendors about the current law and regulations of the Youth Tobacco Act which states that it is illegal to sell tobacco to someone under the age of 18 years old.

According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 9 of 10 adult smokers had their first cigarette by age 18. Research shows that early tobacco use is linked to other harmful behaviors like alcohol and illegal drug use, reduced physical activity and poor mental health.

Despite the known dangers of tobacco use, it is still a serious issue in our community. Based on results from the Michigan Profile for Healthy Youth (MiPHY) published by Michigan Department of Education, the average age of first time tobacco use in Oceana County is 12 years old. In Mason and Lake Counties, 25% of high school students who are considered current smokers have tried to quit in the past 12 months and failed.  Many efforts have been made to reduce youth tobacco use and together we will continue to make improvements.

For more information contact Kate Donaldson at (231) 902-8537. To find additional tobacco resources and data visit, www.dhd10.org.