U.S. -- Every day, approximately 3,600 youth between the ages of 12 and 17 smoke their first cigarette and it's estimated that nearly half of them will become regular smokers, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

But despite the dire statistics, health advocates are hoping that with the hike in the federal cigarette tax--62 cents a pack, which went into effect on Wednesday--will curb teen smoking.

"It'd be my hope," said Sarah Derwin, a Health Educator with the Marquette County Health Department.  "With teenagers trying to get their hands on money, when cigarettes are going to be $6-$7 a pack, I would think it would be hard, so I'm hoping it will deter."

Research has shown that youth are two to three times sensitive to price as adults, and a 10 percent price increase could mean a 7 percent drop in teen tobacco use.