2400 Mainers die each year from disease caused by tobacco; thousands more are sick with debilitating diseases like emphysema, lung cancer and heart disease. For every three children who start smoking, one will die early as a result.  We can prevent tobacco-related deaths and illnesses by continuing to invest in the Fund for a Healthy Maine and increasing our cigarette excise tax to prevent youth smoking. We have already proven that these efforts work, we must remain vigilant!

To view the full text of the American Lung Association State of Tobacco Control: 2007 report, visit www.lungusa.org