U.S.-style labels have little influence on tobacco sales
Washington – Large, graphic warning labels on cigarette packages similar to those used in Canada would serve as an important deterrent for new smokers and would encourage current smokers to quit, according to a research study released here today.
“There is no more efficient method of reaching smokers than through the use of graphic and highly visible warning labels,” concluded researchers from the University of Oregon and the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania.
“Current warnings in the United States are easily ignored and do not transmit the same level of emotional impact as the colorful and graphic Canadian warnings,” noted Paul Slovic of the University of Oregon, one of the authors of the study.
The findings were detailed today at a media briefing at the National Press Club. Samples of the Canadian labels were on display.
