As of April 1, Australia’s updated cigarette packaging laws are in effect, requiring health warnings to be printed directly on each cigarette. Phrases such as “causes 16 cancers” and “damages your lungs” aim to further educate smokers on the dangers of tobacco use.
Along with individual cigarette warnings, the law introduces 10 new graphic health warnings on cigarette packs, along with 10 new inserts offering information on the benefits of quitting smoking. Canada is the only other country with similar regulations.
Sarah Durkin of the Cancer Council highlighted that while graphic warnings have been successful in raising awareness, their impact has lessened over time. New warnings now address lesser-known health risks like diabetes, erectile dysfunction, and the effects of second-hand smoke on children’s lungs.
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