Public health advocates recognize the critical issue of tobacco and alcohol marketers targeting youth through appealing and glamorizing images. The marketing of marijuana is just as pervasive and presents similar public health implications. One marijuana joint has four times as many toxins and carcinogens as a tobacco cigarette.
Marijuana and related products and services contribute to a multi-billion dollar industry that consistently markets to youth, denying and ignoring the known health and psychological risks and harms associated with marijuana, particularly when used by young children.
In addition to pervasive marketing in mainstream media such as the Internet and magazines, marijuana is promoted through positive portrayals in movies,music, fashion, and other products designed specifically for youth. The most popular pro-use marijuana images co-opt youth icons.
These marketing tactics have contributed to marijuana being the major illicit drug used by youth ages 12 to 17. There are 6,400 new marijuana users per day and more than two-thirds of these new users are under age 18. The rates of marijuana initiation for youth during 1995 through 1998 were at their highest levels since the peak levels in the late 1970s.
At the end of this session the participant will be able to:
a.Recognize instances of direct and indirect marijuana marketing to youth. b.Understand the public health implications of such marketing. c.Develop tactics to counteract marijuana marketing in a variety of media. d.. Develop tactics to raise awareness of youth marijuana marketing.
See www.ForReal.orgLearning Objectives: Recognize instances of direct and indirect marijuana marketing to youth. Understand the public health implications of such marketing. Develop tactics to counteract marijuana marketing in a variety of media. Develop tactics to raise awareness of youth marijuana marketing.
Keywords: Marijuana, Adolescent Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Center for Substance Abuse Prevention
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.