KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - "I heartily applaud the University of Washington's decision to discontinue sale of tobacco products on campus," said Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health Seattle & King County. "I hope that this action prompts students, faculty, and staff who smoke or chew tobacco to quit these unhealthy behaviors."

Earlier this week, Dr. Ernest Morris, Vice President of Student Affairs for the University of Washington, finalized the decision to discontinue sale of tobacco products on campus. The Student Union Advisory Board had voted the previous week to immediately and permanently discontinue these activities. Tobacco sales at the University of Washington will end before March 20.

"I challenge other learning institutions locally and around the nation to follow the University of Washington's lead in promoting a tobacco-free lifestyle," added Plough.

The policy change was largely due to the yearlong advocacy campaign coordinated by students at the University of Washington. According to the University's own reports, the smoking rates among undergraduate students have increased 56% at the University since 1993. Moreover, it is estimated that over 2,000 currently enrolled students will die prematurely as a result of tobacco use.

Public Health's Tobacco Prevention Program carries out a wide-range of tobacco prevention and control activities. Educational materials and staff presentations are available upon request. Please call 206/ 296-7613 for more information.