The American Board of Pediatrics has called for a complete ban on advertising. I support their proposal. The fact is, we simply cannot trust the tobacco industry when it comes to their relentless efforts to target children. They have always presented and promoted smoking as an attractive, glamorous, and relaxing pastime. But the facts paint a different picture.
Studies show that the overwhelming majority of cigarette use begins with children and teenagers.
Smoking at an earlier age increases the risk of lung cancer and other diseases. For example, lung cancer mortality is highest among adults who begin smoking before age 15. I know there has been some compromise on this issue by the tobacco companies, but that is not enough. It just makes sense that the FDA should have complete authority to oversee this drug. This is woefully inadequate.