Based on reports from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the United States is currently suffering from a vaping epidemic. Consider that, about 7 years ago, 10% of high-school age students took part in vaping, while about 28% of high school seniors admitted to vaping in 2017. Needless to say, the FDA has been voicing its collective distaste for companies’ inability to stop marketing to teens and young adults in high school and college. Now, the organization appears to have hit another roadblock, a $12.8 billion one. Recently, Juul and Altria Group (the makers of Marlboro) teamed up, the FDA is a bit concerned. Let’s take a closer look at how these two cigarette giants have frustrated this major organization.
Lack of Commitment to the Public
Back in December, the FDA accused a group of e-cigarettes creators of breaking commitments to the public and ignoring deals with the FDA as part of an initiative to make these products less accessible to teens and young adults. At this time, Scott Gottlieb (Commissioner of the FDA) is preparing to confront Juul and Marlboro (a division of Altria), concerning the matter. In the New York Times report, officials announced that Gottlieb will be composing letters that explain how both companies publicly announced to remove nicotine pods from shelves while conducting this secret $12.8 billion deal.
Helping and Hindering Smoking?
Based on reports, Juul appears to be staying true to its goal of helping traditional cigarette users to quit smoking altogether and claims its partnership with Marlboro will only strengthen this goal. CEO Kevin Burns explained how this decision is only an extension of the plan to stop teen vaping. On the surface, the partnership may seem innocent enough.
Nevertheless, Juul has still been forced into the public spotlight for its contributions to the teen vaping epidemic, but Burns has emphasized how the company has definitely been catering to young people. As part of the new mission, Juul is planning to remove the pods. For now, all we can do is watch and wait to see what happens next, concerning the deal.
Seeking Treatment for Cigarette Abuse and Nicotine Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
