No Tobacco Day
May 31, 2009
The WHO will mark its No Tobacco Day with events across the globe and the kickoff to a new campaign promoting the use of pictorial warnings on tobacco products. "Show the truth, picture warnings save lives," is the message and theme of this year's No Tobacco Day.
When the WHO says the truth, it means bleeding brains, blackened gums and bulging neck tumors.
"Although some people question the need for such pictures, the evidence is absolutely clear that they convince people to quit," said Douglas Bettcher, the head of the WHO's Tobacco Free Initiative.
"Disgust, fear, sadness or worry" triggered by the graphic images can effectively discourage smoking.
Bettcher said the images are the most effective way to communicate the risks of smoking to those who are unaware of the dangers as well as to those who try to block such worries from their mind when they smoke.
According to the WHO, such warning images are already used in more than 20 countries, including Britain, Belgium, Iran, Peru and Malaysia, although nine out of ten people live in countries that do not require their use.
Smoking a global issue
The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control obliges its 160 signatory countries to require health warnings on packaging, which describe the harmful effects of tobacco use. The convention does not make it mandatory for warnings to also include pictures.
In addition to compelling warnings, the WHO campaigns to cut tobacco use internationally by eliminating smoking in public buildings, imposing high taxes on tobacco products and banning tobacco marketing and sponsorships.
Today, 80 percent of the world's smokers live in developing countries, a number that has risen in recent years due to increased marketing and production in those countries.
Different events are taking place across Europe to promote a tobacco free world. In Bosnia-Herzegovina ,there will be a performance by the Sarajevo Drum Orchestra, information and advice booths as well as games in the main square in Sarajevo.
In Italy, there will be a conference on Italian health policies, the prevention and treatment of tobacco-related illnesses and the promotion of a smoke-free culture.
In the Czech Republic, a group of about 80 people will climb Snezka, the country's highest mountain and a symbol of clean air.
hf/dpa/Reuters
Editor: Greg Benzow