ISLANDERS are being asked to decide which anti-smoking images are the most effective. Health departments in Guernsey and Jersey are joining forces in the battle to protect young people from the dangers of tobacco and to support those who want to kick the habit.
A website featuring various picture warnings has been set-up and the images considered the most effective will eventually be displayed on all tobacco products.
‘Placing pictorial warnings on tobacco products is the latest local public health action to try to prevent young people from starting smoking and to encourage the many smokers who want to quit to make that next step,’ said Health and Social Services minister Deputy Peter Roffey.
The joint consultation, launched today, will run until 28 February.
People who see the pictures will be asked to register their view on which ones they feel will have the most impact.
Following the exercise, a definitive set of 13 images will be identified which might help prevent people dying early from smoking-related diseases.
Cigarette and tobacco packets currently carry written health warnings.
Research suggests that using pictures increases the impact.
The consultation will help select a set of images, which could have a real impact in reducing the number of people who smoke by showing the dangers associated with tobacco addiction.
They say the evidence from other jurisdictions, including Canada and Brazil, is clear - graphic picture warnings inform people of the risks of smoking, encourage people to reduce their smoking or quit altogether and can also help to reduce the number of young people who take up smoking.
Many organisations will be contacted directly in order to seek their views, but comments on the proposals are equally welcomed from members of the public.
* People can view the picture warnings and register their views from today on the website at www.gov.je/health.
Article posted on 3rd January, 2008 - 12.00am
Loading ...
Most Commented: