Tobacco acquisition practices of adolescents in two Wisconsin communities

More than 2,000 students in two Wisconsin communities were surveyed on their tobacco use and acquisition habits. The results indicate a defined pattern of acquisition across the three grade levels surveyed. Eighth grade tobacco users buy or "bum" tobacco from friends but also use a wide variety of methods and sources. Tenth and 12th grade tobacco users primarily purchase tobacco from businesses. About one third of 8th grade tobacco users regularly buy from vending machines and almost half of the 8th and 10th grade tobacco users in one of the communities have shoplifted tobacco during the past year, with 12% most often obtaining tobacco in this manner. These patterns of acquisition may have a contributory effect on the high prevalence of adolescent tobacco use reported in both communities. The results argue for meaningful enforcement of laws prohibiting tobacco sales to minors and the elimination of self-service sales of tobacco products.