For most people that find themselves with a smoking habit that’s hard to kick, their exposure to the addictive substance began when they were young, likely due to peer pressure and a desire to fit in. Because of this, it’s important to emphasize early on how important it is to stay clear of the deleterious effects of tobacco.
The Food and Drug Administration has unveiled a new campaign with the admirable goal of protecting children from the dangerous effects of a tobacco habit. In a news release touting the potential of the new campaign, the agency points out that each day sees an estimated 3,200 kids and teens try a cigarette for the first time, and nearly a fourth of those may become habitual smokers.
That’s why the FDA will unfurl an ad campaign next week that attempts to get across a message called “The Real Cost.” Over the coming year, you are likely to see this ad campaign implemented across a number of mediums. Print, internet, and television ads will focus on trying to get the most at-risk demographics to understand the dangers of tobacco.
Over the next couple years, the FDA will study how well the ongoing effort is working. 8,000 teens have been picked out to supply information about their tobacco usage, and the hope is that teens privy to the message will be less inclined to try and/or stick with tobacco.