The number of deaths caused by tobacco use is greater than the combined number of deaths due to AIDS, alcohol, automobile accidents, murders, suicides, drugs and fires. Tobacco is a substance of abuse. Nicotine, a key ingredient in tobacco products, is an addictive drug. Children and adolescents are of particular concern due to increased risk for addiction and passive exposure.
Smoking is a known cause of cancer, heart disease, stroke and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Special dangers exist for specific subpopulations of smokers such as pregnant women who suffer higher rates of spontaneous abortions, stillbirths, premature births, low birth weights and complications of pregnancy from direct use as well as passive exposure. Supported by extensive scientific and epidemiologic evidence, the American Academy of Family Physicians opposes smoking and the use of tobacco and has accepted the U.S. Surgeon General's challenge to work toward the goal of a tobacco-free society by the year 2000. Advertising and Labeling Manufacturers of tobacco products spend billions of dollars each year promoting their products. The Academy especially deplores those advertising campaigns that are aimed at special populations such as children, adolescents, minorities and women. The American Academy of Family Physicians strongly supports labeling of all tobacco products warning potential users of health hazards.