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(CNN) – Cigarette sales went up last year for the first time in 20 years, according to the Federal Trade Commission.
It was only a 0.4% increase, but that’s still surprising for a number that’s been going down each year of the 21st century.
It’s not known exactly why people are buying more cigarettes.
Some experts say more isolation and uncertainty increase the risk of substance abuse.
The Wall Street Journal reported more smokers are switching back to cigarettes due to new restrictions on flavored vaping devices.
Cigarette maker Altria said it believes Americans are adding “nicotine occasions to their day.”
About 14% of adults in the U.S. smoke.
Wholesalers and retailers bought 203.7 billion cigarettes last year.
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