Stogies not just for old fogies

Fewer young adults are smoking cigarettes, according to a recent Gallup poll. In the last 10 years, the smoking rate has decreased from 34 percent to 22 percent.

Non-cigarette use, however, among 18- to 29-year-olds is up. According to the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, use of smokeless tobacco, cigars and pipes is much higher among this young group than all other age groups.

Smokeless tobacco is the most popular form, but cigars are close behind. The report cites three reasons why cigars have gained in popularity among a younger crowd:

  • Many brands offer flavored cigars.
  • In some places in the country, cigars actually cost less than cigarettes because they are taxed differently.
  • Young adults are drawn to "social smoking and a connoisseur culture" promoted by specialty cigar shops.

What do you make of these findings? Email connie.post@coxinc.com

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