Most people who use tobacco products began in adolescence. More than 80 percent of adult smokers begin smoking before high school graduation. This suggests that if kept tobacco-free, most youth will never start using tobacco.

Youth sports present an opportunity to connect with young people regarding their health. One way communities are reaching young people is through the CDC’s tobacco-free sports movement. While on a sports team, young athletes learn to make important decisions related to physical activity, good nutrition, and tobacco use. Tobacco- use and sports do not mix. In addition to its harmful effects and health risks, tobacco can have a damaging effect on sports performance, including endurance and lung capacity. As highly influential people in a young person’s life, coaches can appeal to athletes regarding their health in a way that parents may not be able to.

The tobacco-free sports movement is gaining momentum – even the London 2012 Olympic Games were smoke free! Other ways communities can prevent youth tobacco use include:

• Adopt tobacco-free park policies to discourage youth from smoking in public spaces.
• Develop a public awareness initiative targeting youth to encourage tobacco cessation.
• Work with schools, faith-based organizations, and youth after-school or community programs to provide free tobacco cessation kits and counseling.

What is your community doing to encourage youth to be tobacco-free? Are you promoting sports
participation as a healthy and positive alternative to tobacco use?

Want to know more?

Tobacco-Free Sports Initiatives: http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/youth/sports/index.htm
Youth & Tobacco-Use: http://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/youth_data/t...
Quit Smoking Today: http://smokefree.gov/