Picture-based warnings are more effective deterrent against tobacco smoking as compared to text warnings only. This information was disclosed by Dr. Florante E. Trinidad, Technical Officer, Tobacco Free Initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Dr. Trinidad pointed out during his presentation that picture-based health warnings would increase its effectiveness, make the message more noticeable and salient and help counter the branding and imagery of the package. According to him, it also engages the audience on an emotional level and communicates information to illiterate or less literate populations.
According to WHO Report on the Global Epidemic of 2008, tobacco is killing 5.4 million people per year from lung cancer, heart disease and other diseases. The country ranked 9th highest in the world for adult male smokers, based on the World Lung and the American Cancer Society findings.
The Philippines was a signatory on June 6, 2005 of WHO’s Framework Convention On Tobaco Control (FCTC), an evidence-based treaty, in existence to combat the dangers posed by tobacco usage. It aims to reaffirm the people’s right to the highest standard of health through effective information dissemination against smoking. It also advocates for the restriction of tobacco advertising, sponsorships and promotions among ratifying countries, protection of the public via information and the setting up of a highly effective method of labeling and packaging.
Proposed measures such as Senate Bill No. 2377 and House Bill 3364 are currently filed in both Houses of Congress hopefully to implement at least three things: fortify the battle against the devastating effects of tobacco use and second-hand smoke with better health warnings, ban misleading descriptors and eliminate deceptive labeling on cigarette packs which undermine public health objectives. (PNN/PIA)
