AMA Supports Picture Warnings On Cigarette Packages
Melbourne oncologist, Dr Allan Zimet, today welcomed the Government's commitment to run photographic warnings on cigarette packets but said waiting till June 2005 to make the changes was a waste of valuable time.
Dr Zimet said there was no reason why the changes couldn't be brought in by December 2004.
"Tobacco companies change their packaging regularly as part of their marketing strategy. There is ample opportunity to make the required changes much sooner than mid 2005," Dr Zimet said.
"Canadian and Australian research shows that large tobacco package warnings, in colour, with pictures and graphics effectively discourage smoking.
"Strong warnings help motivate smokers to quit and help persuade children not to smoke.
"While most smokers know that smoking is bad for you they are unaware that smoking kills one in two long-term users.
"Photographs on cigarette packages would leave smokers in no doubt about the damage cigarettes cause.
"The tobacco industry has a long history of ignoring their obligations to smokers, playing down the health damage caused by tobacco and discrediting and confusing the public health messages on the harm caused by tobacco.
"The AMA urges the Government to implement the changes as soon as possible," Dr Zimet said.
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