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What does Boyz II Men think about teen smoking?
We think smoking is an unhealthy choice. We believe that teens who smoke risk missing out on a full, healthy, and productive life.
Have any members of Boyz II Men ever smoked? Have you ever considered smoking?
No, because singing is so important for us. We couldn’t do what we do if we smoked. Our sound depends on taking care of our voices. The worst thing for voices is taking in cigarette smoke.
Do you believe your campaign, "Smoke-Free – It’s the New Evolution," will help teen smokers give up smoking?
We hope the campaign will inspire teen smokers to take the necessary steps toward quitting---even better, we hope to give teens another reason not to start smoking in the first place. Tobacco use is very addictive because of the nicotine, and once you start smoking, quitting can be a challenge.
Do you believe your stance against smoking will serve as a role model for teens?
We’re honored that some teens may see us as role models. That’s important, but young people should not focus only on role models. Like all people, role models are also learning and growing, and occasionally they do make mistakes. It’s important for teens to check out for themselves the health facts about smoking and then make an informed decision. We hope that decision will be either to quit or never to start smoking.
What message do you hope to get out to teen smokers?
We are not trying to preach or to be self-righteous about smoking. We just want teens to know what we really believe. Our goal is to get the message out about the health and social benefits of being smoke-free.
How has smoking personally touched the group?
Some of us have lost relatives to cancer caused by smoking. Several of our family members and friends smoke, and we hope that someday they will quit. We prefer to limit smoking around us. We are very sensitive to smoke. A smoke-filled concert stage prevents us from performing at the level that our fans expect from us.
Besides the "Smoke-Free --- It’s the New Evolution" poster, is Boyz II Men planning other activities to deliver the smoke-free message?
We want to do some radio and television spots. Additionally, we would like to have the TV spots shown before our concert. Whenever possible, we’ll also mention the smoke-free messages during talk shows and interviews with the media.
Do you think other entertainers and music artists will get involved in the smoke-free issue?
Some athletes, entertainers, models, and other public figures have already spoken out. We are hoping that our participation will inspire others in the entertainment industry to take a stand against teen tobacco use.
What would Boyz II Men say to teens who believe smoking is cool?
The way we see it, becoming ill or risking an early death from cigarette smoking is the farthest thing from cool. Being cool is living life to your full potential.
What advice would Boyz II Men give to teens who aspire to be singers?
If you want to do your best — whether it’s singing, sports, acting, or even being a super-model — smoke-free is definitely the way to go
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Privacy Policy | Accessibility TIPS Home | What's New | About Us | Site Map | Contact Us CDC Home | Search | Health Topics A-Z This page last reviewed October 08, 2004 United States
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