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Show Chew, snuff sales to minors illegal Utah businesses which sell tobacco in any form to young people of 18 years or less are committing a crime, and are exposing Utah teenagers to serious health risks, according to the Utah Dental Association. Many business people apparently do not realize that since 1974 it has been illegal to sell cigarettes, snuff and chewing tobacco to minors. It is also illegal for minors to have tobacco products in their possession. Utah dentists are seeing the results of increased sales to minors and the abuse of smokeless tobacco products by teenagers. "Our dentists are seeing many more young patients, especially males, who come to our offices with serious symptoms of cheek, gum and teeth diseases," states Gary Mathews, a Provo dentist and president of the Utah Dental Association. "Many young people seem to think that snuff and chew are safe alternatives to smoking. This simply is not true. It has very serious potential health risks." The use of snuff and chewing tobacco is increasing in Utah, as it is nationally. Dentists report some very serious problems in Utah, including a recent case in Utah County where a high school student is undergoing the removal of the lower half of his jaw as a result of the use of chewing tobacco. "We would like business people, law enforcement officers, parents and young people to know why it is illegal for minors to buy or possess tobacco products. It is not as safe as chewing gum. The health problems can be devastating! "Beer sales to minors is not their, only life and health concern. Tobacco products have no beneficial use, but certainly hold the potential of great physical harm and personal tragedy," concluded Dr. Matthews. |
