Why are tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship a threat to young people?

The more exposed to tobacco advertising young people are, the more likely they are to use tobacco. The tobacco industry falsely associates use of its products with desirable qualities such as glamour, energy and sex appeal as well as with exciting activities and adventure.

Widespread tobacco advertising “normalizes” tobacco use, portraying it as being no different from any other consumer product, and making it difficult for young people to understand the hazards of its use.

Young people underestimate the risk of becoming addicted to nicotine and the tragic health consequences that can follow.