AAFP Statement: Family Physicians Continue to Support Tobacco Legislation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, October 03, 2007

Statement attributable to:
Rick Kellerman, M.D.
Board Chair
American Academy of Family Physicians

“Contrary to testimony given by Alan Blum, M.D., before the Health Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) did not withdraw support of the “Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act” (S. 625/H.R. 1008), which would give the FDA authority to regulate tobacco products. The AAFP feels this legislation represents a step forward in protecting the American public, especially children, from the harm caused by tobacco products.”

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Founded in 1947, the AAFP represents 105,900 physicians and medical students nationwide. It is the only medical society devoted solely to primary care.

Approximately one in four of all office visits are made to family physicians. That is 240 million office visits each year — nearly 87 million more than the next largest medical specialty. Today, family physicians provide more care for America’s underserved and rural populations than any other medical specialty. Family medicine’s cornerstone is an ongoing, personal patient-physician relationship focused on integrated care.

To learn more about the specialty of family medicine, the AAFP's positions on issues and clinical care, and for downloadable multi-media highlighting family medicine, visit www.aafp.org/media. For information about health care, health conditions and wellness, please visit the AAFP’s award-winning consumer Web site, www.FamilyDoctor.org.