The National Spit Tobacco Education Program (NSTEP) has announced the winner of its annual slogan contest, and encourages young baseball and softball players to talk to their coaches and parents about tobacco addiction and the health risks of using tobacco products, including spit and smokeless tobacco.
This year's slogan contest winner is Katie Reynolds, a 12-year-old Little League Softball player with the Pawling Little League from Pawling, NY, whose submission, "Chew on this ... tobacco steals your health," sends a clear message that tobacco has no place in the ballpark.
"In addition to being thrilled and proud of Katie's slogan, we are equally delighted that the contest provided an opportunity for our family to discuss the harms of tobacco," said Katie's parents, William and Gina Reynolds.
Katie's slogan will be featured on a pin designed by the program for distribution at the Little League Baseball World Series in South Williamsport, PA, August 21-30. Katie will receive a monetary award, a trip to the event with her family, and an on-field award ceremony.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance, about 8% of high school students (and 13% of high school males) used smokeless tobacco in the past 30 days.
Oral Health America's NSTEP works with Little League International to educate families about the risks of spit tobacco use, including oral cancer, gum disease, tooth decay, and nicotine addiction. During the 10-day Little League Baseball World Series, the program provides tobacco and health education to tens of thousands of young baseball and softball players and their families.
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