Despite widespread awareness of the dangers of smoking, it remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Alabama and across the United States.

Data from the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids reveals that 14.2% of adults in Alabama smoke cigarettes — a rate significantly higher than the national average of 11.6 percent, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Cigarette smoking is a leading contributor to chronic health conditions, exacerbating diseases such as heart disease, various cancers, and lung and respiratory ailments. It also plays a significant role in adverse reproductive outcomes. In Alabama, more than 264,000 individuals are currently living with illnesses attributable to smoking, according to a 2019 report by Dunlap & McCallum.

The toll of smoking extends beyond tobacco users. The same report highlights 950 deaths in Alabama linked to indirect causes, including secondhand smoke exposure, smoking-related fires, and prenatal complications.

A recent WalletHub study examined the lifetime financial impact of smoking for an average smoker living to the age of 69. In Alabama, such smokers would spend approximately $2.8 million over their lifetime on daily cigarette purchases, healthcare expenses, income losses, and missed financial opportunities.

RELATED: Alabama Senate votes to ban vaping in most public places

Specifically, the average Alabama smoker would spend $120,012 out of pocket on tobacco over their lifetime, with healthcare costs amounting to $145,095. Annually, these expenses break down to $2,500 for tobacco purchases and $3,023 for healthcare.

Last year, State Sen. Tim Melson (R-Florence) introduced legislation aimed at improving access to safer alternatives for adult smokers.

The proposed bill seeks to establish a new tax category for heated tobacco products — smoke-free options considered less harmful than traditional combustible cigarettes. 

These alternatives have demonstrated potential in helping individuals quit smoking in other countries. While not yet widely available in Alabama, heated tobacco products are anticipated to enter the state’s market in the near future.

By offering adults access to less harmful alternatives to cigarettes, states have the opportunity to reduce the costs associated with smoking and improve public health outcomes, according to some advocates for smoke-free products. Former Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price endorsed this approach last year, advocating for Alabama to implement “changes to its tax code” that could position the state as a leader in tackling public health challenges linked to smoking.

Mississippi took a similar step last year, passing legislation to lower taxes on smoke-free alternatives. This development highlights growing regional support as these new products continue to enter the market.