The New England journal of medicine
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Because the nation's health is so greatly influenced by cigarette smoking, this report examines current trends in cigarette advertising and marketing. According to the Federal Trade Commission, total cigarette advertising and promotional expenditures reached $2.1 billion in 1984. From 1974 through 1984, total expenditures increased approximately sevenfold, or threefold after adjustment according to the consumer price index. ⋯ The fastest growing markets are discounted cigarettes and brands containing 25 cigarettes per pack. Several advertising campaigns have targeted women, minorities, and blue-collar workers. The study of these marketing trends should assist health officials in identifying and predicting patterns of cigarette use and in developing health promotion programs that counteract the influence of advertising by incorporating similar, effective techniques.