The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a new series of graphic anti-smoking ads Thursday. The new ads are a continuation of last year's successful anti-smoking ad campaign, "Tips From Former Smokers." Starting Monday, the ads will hit radio, television, billboards, print and online media.
The "Tips From Former Smokers" 12-week ad campaign features real-life, emotionally compelling stories from former smokers. Many of them are still living with smoking-related complications and urge others to quit before it's too late. Addressed in the ads are personal stories of lung cancer, severe adult asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other smoking-related health conditions. Former smokers also candidly describe the benefits of quitting smoking as well as the losses. Smoking can cause complications from diabetes, including amputations, kidney failure and blindness.
"Last year's campaign exceeded our very high expectations, and this year's campaign continues in that vein of showing the realities of smoking," said Dr. Tom Frieden, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during a press conference.
Most adults are aware of the dangers associated with tobacco use; however, in the United States one in five adults habitually smoke. Smoking harms just about every organ in the human body and each year over 440,000 Americans die from a smoking-related illness. Nearly 70 percent of smokers indicate that they want to kick the habit and the CDC is hoping these ads are compelling enough to convince them. About 90 percent of people who smoke start before the age of 18, as marketing ads for cigarettes target the younger members of society.
"The CDC's campaign is a smart investment that will save lives and save money by reducing tobacco-related health-care costs, which total $96 billion a year in the United States," said Matthew Myers, president of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.
The "Tips From Former Smokers" ad campaign provides awareness, education and motivation for those who wish to quit.
