COM 0314.067 1996-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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i l!I EXECUTIVE CHAMBERS HONOLULU BENJAMIN J. CAYETANO September 9, 1996 GOVCRMOR Exactly one year ago, President Clinton addressed the nation on the problem of youth smoking. With over 400,000 Americans dying each year from tobacco-related illnesses and nearly 90 percent of them starting to smoke before the age of 18, the President has become an advocate for further restrictions on youth access to tobacco. Cigarette smoking is the single most preventable cause of death for our people. In 1995 alone, Hawaii lost over $328 million as a result of the effects of smoking. Lost wages and decreased productivity caused by premature death due to smoking cost nearly $132 million, while hospital and other direct health costs due to smoking added close to $160 million. In 1993, nearly 30 percent of 12th graders in public schools reported being regular smokers compared to 22 percent in 1980. What these statistics reveal is an alarming increase in adolescents beginning a long term addiction and life shortening habit. Hawaii's booklet entitled, "Hawaii's Youth Making a Difference for Their Future," is a collection of comments from Hawaii's school children in support of growing up tobacco-free. In excerpts from their letters, they express anger at being targeted by the tobacco industry, fear for what tobacco is doing to their generation, and sympathy for those who have suffered the fatal consequences of a legal but lethal product. My hope is that this booklet is the beginning of a statewide effort to reduce youth access to tobacco. The key to a healthy and productive future is in the hands of Hawaii's youth. Let's give them the best opportunity for success by supporting them in reaching their goal. with warmest personal regards, Aloha, . ' ~ BENJ IN J. CAYETANO