A recent report from the U.S. Surgeon General has brought to light the ongoing tobacco-related health disparities affecting various racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Despite significant progress in reducing smoking rates among youth and adults, tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death, claiming over 490,000 lives annually. The report, titled “Eliminating Tobacco-Related Disease and Death: Addressing Disparities,” emphasizes that the burden of tobacco use falls disproportionately on communities already facing health inequities.
The American Heart Association (AHA) responded to the report, highlighting the need for urgent action to address this public health crisis. The report reveals that American Indian and Alaska Native communities have the highest smoking rates among racial and ethnic groups, with youth in these communities experiencing an increase in tobacco use despite overall declines. Additionally, tobacco use remains disproportionately high among LGBTQ+ individuals, who are often targeted by the tobacco industry’s aggressive marketing strategies.
Ryan Kennedy, PhD, from the Institute for Global Tobacco Control, stressed the importance of advancing tobacco-related health equity. He stated, “At IGTC, we believe that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health, unburdened by the negative effects of tobacco.” The report calls for comprehensive tobacco control policies, including the elimination of all flavored tobacco products, which are designed to addict and harm marginalized populations.
Joanna Cohen, PhD, director of IGTC, noted the global relevance of these findings, stating, “Tobacco-related health disparities exist worldwide. This report offers a meticulous review of the existing evidence and makes recommendations that can put an end to tobacco-related health disparities.” The AHA urges policymakers and public health advocates to implement equitable public health policies, invest in prevention and cessation programs, and dismantle the structures that allow the tobacco industry to target vulnerable populations.
See “Addressing Tobacco-Related Health Disparities—Faculty Members Support New Surgeon General’s Report” (November 19, 2024)
