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S.D. Improves in Tobacco Control

Jan 4, 2008 | Associated Press | Forbes News

A national report indicates that South Dakota is one of the most improved states when it comes to funding programs that protect kids from tobacco.

South Dakota was ranked 40th in that category in 2005 but has moved up to 20th.

The state currently spends $5 million a year on tobacco prevention programs, which is 57.5 percent of the minimum amount of $8.7 million recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

South Dakota spent just $707,000 on tobacco prevention in 2005.

"It is critical that South Dakota's leaders build on this year's progress and further increase funding for tobacco prevention because the tobacco companies are spending huge sums to market their deadly and addictive products, often in ways that appeal to kids," said William V. Corr, executive director of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

"Tobacco prevention is a smart investment that will reduce smoking, save lives and save money by reducing tobacco-related health care costs," he said.

The report by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, and American Lung Association notes that tobacco companies spend more than $37 million a year on marketing in South Dakota.

Most states still fail to fund tobacco prevention programs at minimum levels recommended by the CDC, Corr said.

The report warns that the nation's progress in reducing smoking is at risk unless states increase funding for programs to prevent kids from smoking and help smokers quit.

In South Dakota, 28 percent of high school students smoke, and 1,300 more kids become regular smokers every year.