Somehow we’re not surprised.
However this IS sinking and stinking to a whole new level!
A new report from the Campaign For Tobacco-Free Kids is accusing cigarette company Phillip Morris of committing to a Marlboro cigarette ad campaign that is meticulously manufactured for teenagers.
Thus the coalition of public health groups are mad as hell and they’re not going to take it anymore!
The report hopes to prove that the ad campaigns are specifically going after teenagers with ads that show young “cool” people hooking up with each other, partying, and traveling to fun places.
If that’s true, that would mean the company is breaking its own ethical code of not marketing cigarettes to teens!
The president of Campaign For Tobacco-Free Kids writes in the report:
“Philip Morris International claims it doesn’t market to kids, but the evidence in this report shows otherwise…While tobacco companies claim publicly that they do not market to youth or design marketing campaigns that target them, a 2013 study conducted in low- and middle-income countries showed that 22% of five- and six-year-olds surveyed were able to correctly identify Marlboro cigarettes, the world’s best-selling cigarette brand.”
However a spokesperson for Phillip Morris International denied the accusations in a statement that said:
“Our Marlboro campaign, like all of our marketing and advertising, is aimed exclusively at adult smokers and is conducted in compliance with local regulations and internal marketing policies. Allegations to the contrary are unfounded and based on a subjective interpretation. In those places where marketing and advertising is permitted, our campaigns are intended to inform current consumers of our brands in their choice and encourage smokers of competing brands to switch to our products.├óΓé¼┬¥
Of course it would make a ton of sense for cigarette companies to target teenagers. Most smokers are hooked on cancer sticks during their teenage years!
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
“Smoking and smokeless tobacco use are initiated and established primarily during adolescence. Nearly 9 out of 10 smokers started smoking by age 18, and 99% started by age 26.”
Looking at these ads, it’s clear, to us at least, that teenagers are absolutely being targeted by “cool” people.
But there’s nothing “cool” about cigarettes! It’s not only a disgusting and addictive habit, but a lethal one, as well!
So if you don’t want to croak then absolutely don’t smoke!
Check out some of the controversial ads down (below) !!!