Why are tobacco/vape-free college campuses important?
With 99% of smokers starting before age 26, college campuses are critical to preventing young adults from starting tobacco use, aiding current smokers in quitting and reducing exposure to secondhand smoke for all. Tobacco/vape-free policies are especially important for institutions that serve populations disproportionately affected by tobacco – including people in low-income communities, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ individuals, military members and those with mental illness. Beyond the long-established negative health effects of smoking, scientific evidence shows that nicotine in any form can worsen anxiety symptoms and intensify feelings of depression – as mental health becomes a more critical issue on college campuses.