You are using an outdated browser. For a faster, safer browsing experience, upgrade for free today.
How effective are plain packaging and health warnings in reducing smoking intentions of Turkish university students?  <br/> 5th Policy Note

How effective are plain packaging and health warnings in reducing smoking intentions of Turkish university students?
5th Policy Note

The 5th Policy Note prepared by the TEPAV Tobacco Control Policy Research Team has been published. The note provides an analysis on the effect of plain packaging and health warnings in reducing smoking intensions of Turkish university students. The main findings in this note are as follows:


-Awareness of the harmful effects of cigarettes did not generate a reduction in smoking or an increase in cessation.

-Black (plain) background without brand logos as well as harsher and stronger graphic health warnings are more effective in generating negative affect and avoidance response among the university students.

-The deterring effect of plain packaging and health warnings is greater on female than male students, on late initiators of smoking, and less intense and less nicotine dependent smokers.

-When either one of the new and stronger health warnings or plain packaging is in place, the introduction of the other element does not generate any added impact. Moreover, negative affect and avoidant responses do not translate into intentions to quit within 6 months or sooner.

-It is imperative for policy makers to find innovative and compelling ways of reaching educated youth to encourage them in reducing their smoking and inducing them to cessation.