Strong Uptake in Graphic Tobacco Warnings

Since Canada became the first country to make the display of graphic anti-smoking images on tobacco product packaging mandatory in 2000, a further 77 have agreed to employ the deterrent. Driven by the World Health Organization’s 'Framework Convention onTobacco Control', the approach is based on the premise of “a picture says a thousand words”.

Due to the now extensive use of these images, almost half of the global population (3.5 billion) is exposed to the shock tactic. When all WHO-recommended anti-tobacco measures are taken into account, this rises to two thirds of the world's people. Other techniques include advertising bans, heavy taxation and smoke-free environments.