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HealthGlobal issues

The tobacco industry: Keeping consumers hooked

December 12, 2024

Smoking has an image problem, because everyone knows that it can kill you. That’s why tobacco multinationals are now focusing on marketing e-cigarettes, enticing young consumers with bright colors and fruity flavors.

https://p.dw.com/p/4o4Tc

The World Health Organization says smoking results in the death of eight million people every year. That’s one reason why you’ll now often hear tobacco companies promoting the switch to e-cigarettes, with claims that these are less harmful to our health. It’s first and foremost young people who believe the industry’s promises, thereby taking the first step on the road to addiction. After all, nicotine is an addictive substance. And although it may taste better than tobacco, puffing on a vape is still going to get you hooked in precisely the same way as smoking a regular cigarette. The film investigates the cynicism of an industry that not only accepts this, but also deliberately aims for it.