The Bethel Teen Centers’ Tobacco Free Leadership Program is campaigning against the use of tobacco, vape pens, and e-cigarette products.  Members were among those who campaigned for Tobacco twenty-one, a bill which will raise the legal age of smoking from 18 to 21.  The measure was approved and signed into law. 

The team says effects of long-term smoking are well documented and include lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema, COPD, tongue cancer, and other types of cancer.  Since vaping is relatively new, the scientific community only knows the short-term effects. Some of them include acid reflux, insulin resistance, attention problems, and slower brain development.

The Program won an award for best public service announcement.  At an event earlier this week, at the Oakdale theatre, several members were recognized.  Bethel went up against four other tobacco-free leadership teams.