Government launches consultation on the inclusion of new inserts in cigarette packs to facilitate quitting
The UK government is initiating a consultation on integrating informative inserts within cigarette packs, a strategy to motivate smokers to quit their habit.
This is an exceptionally important initiative considering that smokers and vapers are 45% more likely to die from Covid-19, according to research.
Empowering smokers with positive new inserts in cigarette packs
Placed inside the packaging of cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco, these “new inserts in cigarette packs” would deliver positive messages intended to inspire individuals to quit smoking and direct them to resources for guidance and support.
These messages would outline the health benefits of quitting, such as improved breathing within days, improved mental health, and a significant reduction in heart attack risk by 50% within a year. Furthermore, the inserts would emphasize potential cost savings, estimating an average annual amount of over £2,000 saved per person upon quitting.
Addressing the persistent challenge of smoking
The UK continues to grapple with tobacco-related illnesses and deaths despite declining smoking rates.
Smoking contributes to almost 4% of yearly hospital admissions, roughly translating to nearly 450,000 entries annually. The economic impact of tobacco-related harms, which encompasses costs of over £21 billion annually, also includes a significant burden on the NHS, amounting to more than £2 billion.
Anticipating health gains and financial relief
Introducing “new inserts in cigarette packs” across all tobacco products could reduce smoking rates, alleviate NHS waiting lists, and yield health benefits valued at an estimated £1.6 billion. Health and Social Care Secretary Steve Barclay emphasised the far-reaching implications of smoking on public health, the economy, and individual lives.
By taking proactive measures to lower smoking rates and striving toward a smoke-free nation by 2030, the government aims to lessen the strain on the NHS and enable individuals to lead healthier lives.
Global precedents to raise dangers of smoking
Incorporating pack inserts has already gained traction in various countries, including Canada, Israel, and Australia. Evidence from these nations demonstrates the efficacy of these inserts in motivating smokers to contemplate quitting.
An evaluation in Canada revealed that approximately one-third of smokers engaged with the inserts within a month, and repeated exposure to these inserts notably increased attempts to quit smoking.
The consultation process commencing on August 14, 2023, seeks public input on the introduction and design of these “new inserts in cigarette packs.” Through this initiative, the government underscores its commitment to fostering healthier lives and alleviating the strain on the NHS.
