Cigarette smoking is often portrayed as cool and hip. While it is illegal to advertise cigarettes on TV, tobacco companies are finding different ways to tempt young people to smoke. They have created cartoon characters and cigarette shaped bubble gum, both of which are now banned by the government. You can also see your favorite actor or actress smoke in the movies. These are just some of the ways tobacco companies use to get young people to light up for the first time. Nicotine is one of the many chemicals that you inhale when you smoke. This chemical is highly addictive. Tobacco companies know that it is so addictive that once you start, it will be really hard for you to stop. Studies have shown that most adult smokers started smoking when they were preteens or teenagers.
What is drug abuse?
Drug abuse is a negative pattern of using a substance that can lead to physical, psychological, and social problems. Most people do not start using drugs expecting to develop a substance abuse problem—they see their drug use as a casual way to have fun. Unfortunately, once they start, many find it difficult to stop, and the habit eventually takes control over their lives. Many teenagers tell themselves they will only try a drug once, but after the first try, they are usually under peer pressure to continue experimenting with drugs. Don’t take the risk—not even once. Say “No” to drugs!
Every year, more money is spent on advertising alcohol than any other consumer product. These images usually show well-built men surrounded by very attractive women all holding a particular alcoholic beverage. For men, the message is “If I drink this alcohol, I can get all kinds of beautiful ladies.” For women, the message is “If I drink this alcohol, I will look very sexy and good looking guys will be attracted to me.” These advertisements couldn’t be further from the truth. Alcohol is the most commonly used and widely abused drug in the world. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholism, an addiction to alcohol which is a chronic and sometimes deadly disease.