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The annual American Lung Association State of Tobacco Control 2007 report has been released.  This national report card analyzes state tobacco control laws in four key areas—smokefree air, tobacco control program funding, cigarette  taxes and youth access to tobacco.  Missouri scored grades of  "F" in cigarette tax, "F" in tobacco prevention and control spending, "F" in smokefree air and a "C" grade for youth access to tobacco.

Missouri's tobacco control program needs your help. It is critical that Missouri invest tobacco settlement dollars to prevent our children from becoming addicted to tobacco and help adult smokers kick the habit. This is a sound investment that will save lives and reduce our state’s health care costs.

The evidence that these programs work is clear:  what Missouri is lacking is the political will.  Three reports were issued last year – all of which recognized the need for Missouri to fully fund a tobacco prevention and control program.  In October, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued Best Practices for Comprehensive Tobacco Control Programs, 2007, affirming that investments in tobacco prevention programs save lives and money.  Also in 2007, the prestigious Institute of Medicine and the President’s Cancer Panel both issued independent reports which concluded that tobacco prevention and cessation programs are effective and essential components of a national strategy to reduce tobacco use. 

Please take a moment to send the attached letter to your State Senator, Representative or Governor Blunt to support an increase in Missouri's investment in comprehensive tobacco control programs to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention new recommended spending levels.