We firmly believe in preventing underage tobacco use, and while many have made significant progress on this front, there is much more to be done. Our tobacco companies support organizations seeking to help reduce underage tobacco use. The scope of our companies' efforts may surprise you.

Our tobacco companies recognize that consumers, and society as a whole, expect them to communicate openly and honestly about the health risks associated with their products – and they do this in a variety of ways. These efforts include sharing research with the scientific and public health community and connecting adult smokers who have decided to quit with information that could help them succeed.

Responsibility stems from our Mission and Values and is core to how we operate every day. From environmental management to employees rolling up their sleeves to volunteer in their communities, our approach to responsibility includes soliciting feedback from stakeholders, setting expectations for employees and driving progress. Take a look at our progress so far.

Marlboro is the largest-selling cigarette brand in the United States, but there is a reason why you may rarely see advertising for the brand in places other than a retail store. Our companies are committed to responsibly marketing their products to adults who use them. Learn how they connect with adult tobacco users while limiting exposure to unintended audiences.

Altria Group outperformed the S&P 500 from 2000 through 2011 and increased its dividend 45 times in the last 43 years*. We have increased our profitability primarily with investments in four strong premium tobacco brands, Marlboro, Copenhagen, Skoal and Black & Mild, while maintaining a focus on providing superior returns to shareholders.

* Through August 2011