Re: “Makers of flavored tobacco are targeting our kids. WA needs to ban it” [Sept. 13, Opinion]:
As a cardiologist, I treat many patients dealing with the health consequences of tobacco use. While cigarette smoking has declined over the years, a new generation is now facing the health risks of tobacco use with the rise in the popularity of e-cigarettes. And make no mistake, the tobacco industry is targeting our kids with flavors that are particularly appealing to youth, like candy and mint. These flavors are overwhelmingly popular with young people and lure them into a lifetime of addiction to nicotine.
Nicotine damages our hearts and other vital organs. It’s a dangerous and highly addictive substance that increases blood pressure, heart rate and stiffness of artery walls. Nicotine also increases risk of heart arrhythmias. Some e-cigarettes and newer tobacco products deliver even more nicotine than traditional cigarettes, making dependence on these products even stronger.
I join Flavors Hook Kids Washington in supporting efforts to stop the sale of flavored tobacco in our state. It took us decades to recognize the harmful effects of cigarettes. Let’s not wait that long and act today to ensure we don’t lose an entire generation of kids to nicotine addiction.
Ruchi Kapoor, M.D., Ph.D., Seattle, board member, American Heart Association Puget Sound