CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – A study by the American Lung Association shows that tobacco control in South Carolina is poor and in dire need of improvements.

Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable death and disease in South Carolina and across the country.

Over 7,000 people in the state die from tobacco use each year in South Carolina according to the American Lung Association. Current use of cigarettes is just over 12% among adults. Nearly 20% use tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.

The 23rd annual “State of Tobacco Control” report gives grades of “A” through “F” on current tobacco control policies. Categories include tobacco prevention and control funding, smoke-free air, tobacco taxes, access to medical services to quit smoking and ending the sale of flavored tobacco products.

South Carolina received the following grades:

• Tobacco Prevention and Control Program Funding: F
• Smoke-free Air: F
• Tobacco Taxes: F
• Access to Cessation Services: B
• Flavored Tobacco Products: F

State Advocacy Director Danna Thompson with the American Lung Association says they are not just looking at cigarettes, but other tobacco products like e-cigarettes or vapes. Thompson says controlling these products is critical for youth smokers.

“We are seeing illegal products on the shelves,” Thompson says. “We are seeing aggressive tactics by the tobacco industry to get youth addicted to these products and this report really highlights what the state can do to combat that.”

Association leaders are requesting changes in policy efforts, such as passing smoke free ordinances to protect workers and patrons and strengthening tobacco retail licensing laws. The call to action also asks for an increase of $1 per pack on tobacco products.

The Palmetto state ranks in the top five states with the lowest tobacco taxes, which sit at 57 cents per pack of 20.

“Higher taxes decrease youth from accessing a product and getting addicted,” Thompson says. “It also decreases the amount of adults that are using tobacco products and we have shown that throughout the years.”

The state currently funds $6 million toward control program funding. Thompson says the association is aiming for policy makers to increase funds by $5 million as they focus on policy changes in upcoming months. The proposed extra funding is still below the CDC’s recommendation of $51 million towards efforts.

Information on the report is available on the American Lung Association website.

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