Resources from the FDA

From Jennifer Deets, MMG, Support Contractor to the FDA

Every day nearly 4,000 kids under 18 try their first cigarette and 1,000 children under 18 become daily smokers.  The new FDA rules, effective as of June 22, 2010, designed to protect children from tobacco and its deadly effects limit the sale and marketing of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco by:

•   Prohibiting the sale of cigarettes or smokeless tobacco to people younger than 18;

•   Prohibiting the sale of cigarette packages with less than 20 cigarettes;

•   Prohibiting distribution of free samples of cigarettes;

•   Restricting distribution of free samples of smokeless tobacco; and

•   Prohibiting tobacco companies from sponsoring any athletic, musical or other social or cultural events, among other things.

The FDA has a variety of resources and tools for individuals and organizations willing to help spread the word.   

1.   "Break the Chain of Tobacco Addiction" Badges are available for websites, blogs, or social networking sites to show your commitment to following the law and breaking the chain of tobacco addiction.  Please go to: http://www.fda.gov/TobaccoProducts/ResourcesforYou/BreakTheChain/ucm216474.htm 

2.   Tobacco Regulations, Education, Prevention and Control Widget for Your Website or Blog helps others learn about the regulation of tobacco products, the health risks associated with tobacco use, and the benefits of quitting or never starting to use tobacco. Please go to: http://www.fda.gov/TobaccoProducts/NewsEvents/ucm216404.htm

3.   FDA is also interested in finding out about additional communication channels that your organization may have to raise awareness about the FDA resources (e.g., publications, advertising opportunities, listservs).

Please stay informed and help spread the word to help protect America’s children from disease and premature death caused by tobacco use. For more information, please visit: http://www.fda.gov/BreakTheChain.