The Denver City Council voted 11-1 Monday evening to end the sale of most flavored tobacco products within city limits. While the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) and its team of advocates, including cancer survivors and patients, are encouraged by the decision, the legislation includes an exemption for flavored hookah tobacco products which ACS CAN does not support.
“ACS CAN supports ending the sale of menthol cigarettes and all other flavored tobacco products without exemption,” said R.J. Ours, ACS CAN Colorado Government Relations Director. “Tobacco companies have shown us time and time again how they will take advantage of any exemption or loophole left on the table - such as the one for flavored hookah - to continue to addict the next generation, communities of color, residents with lower incomes, and members of the LGBTQI+ community."
According to the Center for Disease Control, hookah smoke contains similar ingredients to cigarette smoke. Components such as nicotine, tar, and heavy metals contribute to the negative health effects associated with smoking hookah. Furthermore, hookah smoke may increase the risk of cancer.
State and local initiatives have been at the forefront of tobacco control.
Studies of local U.S. policies show that ending the sale of flavored tobacco products reduces tobacco use. Nearly 200 localities and 2 states have restricted the sale of menthol cigarettes and other flavored tobacco products. Additionally, numerous studies confirm that adequately funded comprehensive tobacco control programs and evidence-based policies can improve health and save lives, including ending the sale of all flavored tobacco products.
Following Monday’s decision, ACS CAN will remain committed to working with our elected leaders throughout Colorado to reduce the suffering and death caused by cancer through tobacco control and other proven cancer-fighting policies in our communities.
