I am a former smoker, (quit five years ago) by using chantix (Pfizer product). I am a prevention specialist in Oklahoma and I promote tobacco and other substance use prevention. Part of my focus is providing education, prevention strategies and resources to help individuals quit smoking as well as preventing youth from initiating the habit. I agree that the more you promote (market) a service, the better its outcome. This also relates to who you target or market to. I mentioned that I used chantix, which was very effective. I learned of this product through word of mouth and was very happy with the product and the support services. My concern is that I have yet to see an ad with black consumers being represented. When I speak to communities about tobacco prevention and mention this product, I get negative comments about the product, even thought the black consumers have not heard or seen people of their ethnicity in any of the commercials. It makes me wonder if the company wants to market to this group of people. I can assure you it would be an effective campaign. Maybe that's why we haven't seen it.. Makes me wonder. I should add that i have written several letter to Pfizer attempting to get ads with black consumers. I have heard back from them indicating that they select individuals that have used their product and would like to represent their experiences. That doesn't seem to be the case, unless no other black person but me have used the product.
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Hiawatha N. Bouldin of OK 6:38PM May 19, 2012