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American Lung Association Applauds New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Action to Extend Emergency Regulations Ending the Sale of Flavored E-cigarettes to Include Menthol


ALBANY, N.Y. – WEBWIRE

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo today announced that he would accept recommendations from New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker and public health advocates to include menthol flavor products in the emergency regulations ending the sale of flavored e-cigarettes. The need for comprehensive action is even more urgent in light of continuing reports of severe lung illnesses and deaths linked to e-cigarette use, as the developing lungs of youth might be at greater risk.

American Lung Association National President and CEO Harold Wimmer said, “The American Lung Association applauds New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and New York State Commissioner of Health Howard Zucker for putting the health of New Yorkers first by acting to remove all flavored e-cigarettes from the marketplace, including mint and menthol. This is a critical step to address the youth vaping epidemic, as most kids initiate tobacco use with flavors. We are pleased to see Gov. Cuomo taking critical action to protect our kids by preventing and reducing tobacco use.”

“Currently more than 1 in 4 kids use e-cigarettes (27.5%), and among those teens vaping, 63.9% report using menthol and mint flavors. Today, the CDC reported 12 deaths and 805 cases of vaping-related illnesses and deaths nationwide. The American Lung Association is gravely concerned for public health, especially considering the developing lungs of youth are at greater risk. We once again renew our call for the Food and Drug Administration to act immediately to clear the market of flavored e-cigarettes nationally and for all Americans to stop vaping.”

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About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, through research, education and advocacy. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to improve the air we breathe; to reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families; and to eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-related diseases. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the coveted 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Gold-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.


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