DOH sees reduction in tobacco demand with graphic warning

CEBU, Philippines - Graphic Health Warnings (GHW) will be highlighted in the packages of cigarettes anytime soon in line with the “World No Tobacco Day,” the Department of Health said.

Ligaya Moneva, Health Education and Promotion Officer of DOH-7, said picture-based warning in cigarette products is a welcome development.

“It is a really good thing. Kami nga health advocate, we will expect a reduction of illnesses from tobacco, kay people will see the effects of smoking,” she said.

GHW highlights different images of complications triggered by smoking or inhaling smokes of cigarettes like stroke, emphysema, mouth cancer, gangrene, impotence, throat cancer, neck cancer, premature birth and low birth weight of child.

According to the DOH, starting November 4, the authority will confiscate tobacco with no GHW.

The World No Tobacco Day, which was celebrated yesterday, carried the theme “Get ready for plain packaging.”

According to the World Health Organization, plain packaging is seen to reduce the attractiveness of tobacco products and increases the effectiveness of health warnings.

Under plain packaging, the use of logos, colors, brand images or promotional information on packaging other than brand names and product names displayed in a standard color and font style is prohibited.

WHO and the WHO Secretariat of Framework Convention on Tobacco Control are calling countries to get ready for plain packaging of tobacco products.

Moneva said that as early as July 2008, advertising tobacco has been prohibited.

She particularly cited “many” transportation vehicles still promoting tobaccos until now, which is a violation.

“Kanang mga jeep bitaw nga dapit sa butangan sa gasolina kay naa’y mga brand sa tobacco nga gibutang. Kana sa’ng mga color sa brand sa sigarilyo na naa sa jeep kay mao nang gitawag nga brand stretching, which is a violation,” she said. — (FREEMAN)