Youth Exposed to Tobacco Promotions

WASHINGTON—Young people are frequently exposed to high levels of tobacco promotion despite current advertising restrictions, and a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says such advertising exists in more than 90% of retail stores selling tobacco products.

The study, done in collaboration with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, looked at retail outlets in 163 communities. It found that the advertising included exterior and interior displays, self-service pack placement, discounts for multiple purchases, and tobacco vending machines. The study called convenience stores the most "tobacco friendly" environment because of their high degree of tobacco promotions. It found that 75% of teenagers visit convenience stores once a week or more.