Summary:
Cigarette smoking has been on the decline due to increased awareness of its harmful effects and successful anti-smoking campaigns. However, recent photographs of young celebrities such as Timothée Chalamet, Kylie Jenner, Florence Pugh, Anya Taylor-Joy, Jenna Ortega, and Lily-Rose Depp smoking cigarettes have sparked concern. Public health experts warn that celebrities can be influential role models, and seeing them smoke may encourage young people to try cigarettes. Gallup surveys indicate that smoking rates among U.S. adults, particularly those aged 18 to 29, have reached an all-time low. Nevertheless, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that people aged 25 to 44 have relatively high smoking rates. The New York Times reported the anecdotal return of smoking among young adults who had never smoked before. The age of smoking initiation has also increased over time, prompting the need to consider young adults as well. The Federal Trade Commission has reported an increase in cigarette sales, and the recent FDA-approved brand Hestia has used the taboo associated with cigarettes to market its product. Smoking continues to be the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. The portrayal of tobacco use in the media, including by celebrities, can normalize and glamorize smoking, leading to increased tobacco use among young people.
Definitions:
– Cigarette: A narrow cylinder containing psychoactive tobacco that is ignited and inhaled, causing addiction and various health issues.
– Celebrities: Well-known individuals who are famous for their achievements in the entertainment industry and have a significant influence on public opinion and behaviors.
– Smoking Rates: The percentage of individuals who use cigarettes or tobacco products.
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): A national public health agency in the United States that provides information and recommendations to promote health and prevent diseases.
– Federal Trade Commission (FTC): An independent agency of the United States government that works to protect consumers and promote competition.
– Food and Drug Administration (FDA): A federal agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services responsible for protecting public health through regulation and supervision of various products, including tobacco.
– Taboo: Actions or behaviors that are considered unacceptable or forbidden by societal norms.
– Glamorizing: Portraying something as attractive, fashionable, or desirable in order to make it more appealing to others.
– Preventable Disease: A health condition that can be avoided or minimized through preventative measures such as healthy lifestyle choices or vaccination.
– Surgeon General: The leading spokesperson on matters of public health in the federal government of the United States.
– Anti-smoking Campaigns: Programs and initiatives aimed at reducing the prevalence of smoking and raising awareness about its harmful effects.
– Public Health Organization: An institution dedicated to promoting and protecting the health of individuals and communities through research, education, and advocacy.
– Nicotine: An addictive chemical present in tobacco products that stimulates the brain.
Sources:
– “Cigarette Smoking: A Health Hazard of Substantial Proportions” – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
– “An Increase in Cigarette Sales Stirs the Health Fears” – The New York Times
– “The Prevalence of Tobacco Use in Popular Movies” – The Truth Initiative
