It was reported in waterloo that a researcher from the university of waterloo stated that tobacco companies should stop alluring people to smoke by disregarding vibrant colored packages with attractive labels used for a toxic consumer product. David hammond from uw&rsquos school of public health and health systems further said that branding and imagery of packs are extremely effective. A new study by hammond, another researcher from the university of south carolina, and two researchers from the waterloo campus reveal that cigarette packaging that are ordinary are less alluring.
This featured lately in a bmc public health journal reviewed by peers. The study aimed at young brazilian women, who aged between 16 and 26 years. An online survey was conducted, wherein 640 participants beheld ordinary, standard and branded cigarette packages that did not have brand imagery. Hammond that they asked the participants to rate it, just like the tobacco companies ask. It was discovered by the researchers that branded packs had ratings of being more attractive and velvety with better taste. The packs were related to positive smoker qualities of superiority and elegance. In conclusion, for a test of interest, the women had to select one among the plain or branded packs as an ideal gift.
Hammond further noted that these women were thrice more likely to select a normal range of branded package. Although the researchers anticipated on packaging being an influence, the extent of the influence was shocking for them. The reason of young women being the focus of the study was due to them being a favorable lot for tobacco companies as most men smoke. Brazil and canada are tobacco control leaders globally. Therefore, brazil was chosen by researchers for this study. Brazil banned several forms of tobacco advertising. However, hammond added that they continue to have major marketing for the package. In the last quarter of this year, australia will also receive plain packages with name, warnings and one color only. The logos and brand images will be absent. Hammond pointed out that there is a strong oppose from the tobacco companies as they are afraid of a block in case the new law of australia is not challenged. In 2001, canada put warning pictures on cigarette packages.
Being the first country to issue this, over 50 countries followed its lead and implemented this method. Hammond included that canada has become less progressive in this situation, although time is speeding with the arrival of plain packaging soon. The new constraint of australia is closely being observed by other countries. The u.s. Court of appeals ruled weeks ago in washington that tobacco packaging with large, graphic warnings as per any federal regulation is against the protection of free speech of the first amendment. Hammond noticed that this was stunning decision that made the united states the first country to dare the warnings that should be implemented by the tobacco companies. He further stated that they knew it is the most dependable method of reaching to people. 5.4 million deaths have been caused every year around the world due to the use of tobacco and is the most responsible for unnecessary death. Brazil and other countries of low and average income are being promptly affected by that burden of death. Httpmetronews.canewshamilton364277plaincigarettepackaginglessappealinguwstudyfinds