Ban smoking: 'Whatever it takes' - AMA
AMA Vice-President, Dr Mukesh Haikerwal, said today that the Federal Government should do whatever it takes to stop Australians smoking or taking up smoking.
Dr Haikerwal was responding to reports that the Government was seeking to change labelling laws to ban use of the terms 'light' or 'mild' cigarettes.
Other Government proposals include banning the positive depiction of cigarette smoking in movies, removing cigarettes from public display in shops, and the introduction of cigarette 'shock packs' graphically depicting the negative health effects of smoking- all supported by the AMA.
"The Australian community must do whatever it takes to stamp out smoking," Dr Haikerwal said.
"Doctors see the loss of life and the loss of quality of life caused by smoking every day.
"Despite all the warnings and limitations and legislative changes, a lot of people continue to defy the health risks of smoking.
"Too many people - especially young people - think they are invincible.
"It is time for an all-out blitz on smoking.
"Smoking is the largest preventable cause of death and disease in Australia.
"The AMA will support any Government initiative that encourages better health outcomes ahead of a deadly habit that kills many Australians - and put Australia back in the forefront of the war on tobacco," Dr Haikerwal said.
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Judith Tokley (02) 6270 5471 / (0408) 824 306