Australia ‘re-established as world leader’ in reducing tobacco death

The Australian Government’s decision to introduce plain packaging for tobacco products will cut cancer rates in Australia by eliminating one of the most effective remaining forms of cigarette advertising, Cancer Council Australia said yesterday (29 April).

Cancer Council Australia Chief Executive Officer, Professor Ian Olver, said the Government’s commitment to phase out glossy branded tobacco packaging would enhance the effectiveness of graphic health warnings on packs and assist people trying to quit their deadly smoking habit.

"Tobacco companies cleverly tailor product packaging to attract people to the pack and send a message to smokers about the personality of the consumer," Professor Olver said. "Yet in reality, every pack is the same in that it contains a deadly cocktail of chemicals that profoundly increase the user’s risk of developing up to 14 fatal cancer types.

"When tobacco products are sold in plain packs, not only will the health warnings be more prominent, but research also points to a reduction in youth smoking and an overall increase in quitting.

"By committing to replacing the glossy coloured packs with plain packaging, the Government has re-established Australia as a world leader in health policy aimed at reducing the death and disease caused by smoking."

Professor Olver said reductions in premature cancer diagnoses resulting from the announcement would significantly reduce pressure on Australia’s health system over the longer term

(Source: Cancer Council Australia: April 2010)