TOBACCO
We fight against the marketing and sale of deadly tobacco
products to African Americans.
About Tobacco Use
Seventy-four percent of African Americans who smoke want to quit smoking. However, they are typically less successful than other ethnic groups. This may be due to a number of reasons:
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Most African American smokers choose mentholated cigarettes which are more difficult to quit
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There are very few cessation resources developed with African American audiences in mind
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Research is unclear about the unique ways in which nicotine addiction affects people of African decent
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African Americans use cessation treatment and services less often
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Whatever the challenges, getting healthy and quitting smoking should be a top priority within our community. Below are some resources that can start you on your way to success.
CDC: African Americans & Tobacco Use
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Tobacco use is a major contributor to the three leading causes of death among African Americans—heart disease, cancer and stroke
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African American children and adults are more likely to be exposed to secondhand smoke than any other racial or ethnic group.
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African Americans smoke fewer cigarettes per day
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Historically, the marketing and promotion of menthol cigarettes have been targeted heavily toward African Americans through culturally tailored advertising images and messages.
Read more on this:
Programs and Resources for Quitting
Pathways to Freedom DVD
Pathways to Freedom: Leading the Way to a Smoke Free Community© is a free resource designed to assist individuals and community leaders in their efforts to become smoke free, and end smoking-related diseases and death among African Americans. This documentary-style video is a theoretically based smoking cessation program specifically targeting the African American community.