ISLAMABAD: Advocates for public health are making a compelling plea for an immediate expansion of Graphic Health Warnings (GHW) on tobacco products in Pakistan.
The Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (SPARC) has expressed deep concern about the devastating impact of tobacco consumption on public health, especially among children.
In a press statement on Tuesday, they argue that stronger GHWs can play a crucial role in reducing tobacco use and preventing associated health risks.
Malik Imran Ahmed, the Country Head of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK), stresses the urgency for Pakistan to take swift action to increase the size and visibility of GHWs on tobacco products.
The current health warning, set at 60%, often goes unnoticed by consumers, including vulnerable children, due to its small size and inconspicuous placement. It’s worth noting that neighboring countries like India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Maldives, and Myanmar have adopted significantly larger GHWs.
Imran recommends increasing the GHW size to cover at least 85% of the primary display areas of cigarette packs and other tobacco products. This bold move would ensure that the warnings are prominent and easily visible to all consumers, with a particular focus on children, as a continuous reminder of the dangers of tobacco consumption.
Dr. Khalil Ahmed Dogar, the Program Manager at SPARC, emphasizes that tobacco consumption poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of Pakistani children. Studies have convincingly shown that well-designed and prominently displayed Graphic Health Warnings have a substantial influence in discouraging children and adolescents from starting smoking or using other tobacco products.
However, the tobacco industry has exerted considerable influence over past Pakistani governments, hindering the implementation of more substantial health warnings on cigarette packaging.
Khalil asserts that by enhancing GHWs, Pakistan has a unique opportunity to protect its young citizens from the catastrophic consequences of tobacco-related diseases, including lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory disorders.
