AMA supports graphic warnings on cigarette packs

Dr Haikerwal said the AMA has been seeking cigarette 'shock packs' for many years.

"The Government's commitment to run photographic warnings on cigarette packs is certainly welcome, but why wait till 2005," Dr Haikerwal said. 

"Tobacco companies change their packaging regularly. There is no reason changes could not be made this year.

"Smoking kills one in two long term smokers. Large graphic images on cigarette packs will show smokers why.

"Research has shown this strategy works. People stop smoking when they are exposed to these confronting images.

"As part of its anti-tobacco stance the AMA has also called for Governments to put an end to tobacco advertising aimed at young people. The insignificant fines in place offer no disincentive to tobacco companies.

"The AMA also wants a ban on smoking in public places across Australia, to protect the health of workers, especially in pubs and clubs.

"We have called on governments to introduce anti-smoking health warnings to be screened in cinemas before movies that depict people smoking.

"Tobacco companies reap huge profits at the expense of the health of too many Australians.

"Smoking is not glamorous. The effects of smoking are deadly. The preventable burden on health budgets is appalling.

"The Cancer Council/Heart Foundation campaign is a very welcome step. I urge all politicians to support the urgent introduction of graphic warnings on cigarette packs," Dr Haikerwal said.

The AMA's National Tobacco Scoreboard, which maps the progress of each State and Territory on tobacco control, will be released at the AMA National conference in Brisbane later this month. 

CONTACT:         Judith Tokley             (02) 6270 5471 / (0408) 824 306