White Socks Pitcher vs. Chew

John Danks is trying to quite chew because it might be leading to health problems. The White Socks pitcher has been suffering from a finger problem, which might be complicated by his use of tobacco. The Chicago Tribune reports that Dank's "blister problems developed into circulatory problems that caused him to miss a start Wednesday and undergo extensive tests".

Pentagon Targets Tobacco Use

The Pentagon is considering a ban on tobacco in the military. According to USA Today, 32% of soldiers smoke, which affects their physical performance. This is one of the highest use rates in America. In addition, it costs the military "$846 million a year" to treat tobacco-related illness.

Sacramento's Money Goes Up in Smoke

This is a real shocker and concern - the Sacramento News and Review recently reported that in May the City of Sacramento bought 10,000 shares of Altria, the company formally known as Phillip Morris. Altria ranks near the bottom of 541 companies rated by Covalence for their ethical behavior. Covalence ranks each company through "a reputation index based on quantifying qualitative data, which is classified according to 45 criteria such as Labour standards, Waste management, Product social utility or Human rights policy. It is a barometer of how multinationals are perceived in the ethical field".

FDA to Regulate Tobacco

On June 22nd, President Obama signed a bill into law that will allow the FDA to regulate the content, flavor and advertisement of cigarettes. Passing with overwhelming bipartisan support, the tobacco regulation bill is a huge victory for health advocates looking to decrease the use of cigarettes, which is still the number one cause of preventable disease and death in the United States.

Less Scene Smoking

Does tobacco-use in popular media have a negative impact on youth? CNN Health recently posted a well-researched article about the relationship between smoking among youth and smoking on screen.

Youth Summit 2009 - July 22nd - 24th

Free Youth Summit Organized by the Center and BREATHE

What is YOUTH SUMMIT? - Youth Summit is a free three day fun filled event at Valley of the Moon Camp in Sonoma County, California, July 22^nd to 24^th. The purpose of Youth Summit is to prepare students to participate in tobacco-free campaigns, in their schools and communities. There will be exciting workshops in the daytime and fun activities at night! Students will have fun, learn skills, and become positive active members in our community. The Youth Summit is sponsored by Breathe California – Sacramento Emigrant Trails, Sacramento Chinese Community Service Center, and funded by the Sacramento County Health & Human Services Department and Sacramento County Tobacco Litigation Settlement Funds.

Click here for more information and application!

Australia Gets to the Point in Anti-Tobacco Ads