Percentage of Denver County Adults Who Smoke
No Denver data available at this time
15.4% White, non-Hispanic
(Tobacco Attitudes and Behaviors Survey - TABS, 2005)

Spit tobacco is defined as tobacco that is used either orally or through the nasal cavity. There are two primary forms of spit tobacco: snuff and chewing tobacco. Snuff, composed of finely ground tobacco, is used by placing a "dip" between the lip and gum and holding it there for a prolonged period of time. Snuff can also be snorted through the nose. Chewing tobacco can be either shredded or loose-leaf tobacco that is used by placing it in the mouth and chewing. Both snuff and spit tobacco typically remain in the mouth for extended periods of time.

Spit tobacco is very much associated with the rodeo community. Some counties have ordinances in place that do not permit tobacco sponsorship of rodeos or fairs. In other communities, rodeo boards find that tobacco support helps to sustain rodeo competitions. The economics of rural communities contribute to this need for sponsorship support. A recurring attitude is "we'll take money wherever we can get it." With larger prizes, rodeos are able to attract more well known rodeo stars. Tobacco companies support college rodeo stars, providing sponsorships and branded clothing.

Spit tobacco use is very common among emergency responders, such as: firefighters, law enforcement, search and rescue teams and Emergency Medical Technicians. Spit tobacco use is also very common among construction, maintenance, ruraVranch workers and energy field workers.

Spit tobacco is becoming common among female athletes and their coaches. Often players put spit tobacco in between their toes in a belief that this will enhance performance.
(Tobacco Disparities Strategic Plan Draft, November 2006)

DATH Constituents

Tobacco Industry Targeting

From 1985 to 1999, the total marketing expenditures of the top five smokeless tobacco companies in the United States" have more than tripled along with their sales revenues. Marketing and advertising spending by the smokeless tobacco companies in 2001 was $236 million. Advertisements in youth oriented magazines (Sports Illustrated and Rolling Stone) have been particularly heavy, totaling $9.4 million in 2001.

With increasing restrictions on smoking cigarettes, the Industry has advertised "if you can't smoke, chew." Marketing is specifically targeted towards positioning smokeless tobacco as a product that can be used in places where smoking is not allowed or is not socially acceptable. In 2006, the United States Smokeless Tobacco Company, for example, is market testing a "spit-less" form of dry tobacco with three different flavors that is specifically designed to address smoking restrictions. (Tobacco Disparities Strategic Plan Draft, November 2006)