March 23, 2007
A women's health group has issued a blistering attack on R.J. Reynolds, accusing the tobacco company of marketing its new cigarette, Camel No. 9, is such a way to encourage young women to take up smoking.
The Society of Women's Health Research said it is appalled that a tobacco company, with all the information now available, would initiate a marking campaign directed to young women.
"Young women need to know that smoking more negatively affects their health than the health of their male counterparts," said society president and CEO Phyllis Greenberger. "Smoking increases the risk of infertility and the chance of developing cervical cancer. Smoking also puts women at greater risk than men for conditions such as lung cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol and stroke."
The group charges the product design and presentation of Camel No. 9 clearly aims to attract a new generation of young women smokers. Greenberger called it "a reprehensible marketing practice."
"Women are less successful quitting smoking and have more severe withdrawal symptoms than men," Greenberg said.
"The message to women of all ages: If you are not a smoker, for your immediate and long-term health, do not begin. And, if you do smoke, stop. If you can not quit on your own, seek help from medical professionals or social support groups."
