More Graphic Anti-Smoking Ads In The Works

A series of graphic anti-smoking ads seem to be getting the attention of their target audience.

The ads show real people who have had to undergo paralysis, lung removal and amputations due to smoking-related diseases.

"They're graphic, but they're true which is different than true scare tactic advertising. There's a lot of research that scare tactic advertising will not change adult behavior," said Pamela Jacques, Executive Director for the Premier Health Community.

The Premier Health Community offers free and low-cost services for people trying to quit the habit.

Jacques sees the effects of smoking every day. She said that health care related costs are $2,000 more each year for smokers compared to non-smokers.

Jacques also believes the new ads work.

"It gives a very realistic picture of what a lot of people live with everyday because they use tobacco and it helps smokers see that reality, where I think it was more conceptual before that," she said.

The Centers for Disease Control is planning another round of the ads.

"I've seen the pain and suffering tobacco causes a person. If we can get one person to not go through that, it seems worthwhile," added Jacques.

The ads have generated more than double the usual volume of calls to the National Hotline with Cessation Tips at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

The CDC said the $54 million ad program will pay for itself by the health care savings of preventing illness due to smoking.

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