Brazil
In 2002, Brazil forced all cigarette manufacturers to sacrifice an entire side of their packaging for graphic warnings. Coupled with stark images, the warning were pretty straightforward; “When smoking, you inhale arsenic and napthalene, also used against rats and cockroaches“, “Nicotine dependence causes sadness, pain, and death. and probably the most cheekiest one, “smoking causes sexual impotence.” [Image Source]
Canada
Canada began with prominent, graphic health warnings on its cigarette packaging in 2001. An early study from the Canadian Cancer Society found that 90% of Canadian smokers took notice of the new warnings, 43% became more concerned about the health effects of smoking, and 44% renewed their motivation to quit.
Photo by Stovak, Creative Commons Attribution License 2.0.
France
In April 2010, France decided to adopt the warnings approved by the European Union. Cigarettes sold after April 2011 must display one of 14 images. They must cover 30% of the front and 40% of the back of each package.
[Image Source]
United Kingdom
On August 29, 2007, the United Kingdom government issued a new regulation to provide for 15 new health warnings on cigarette packages, effective the 1 of October, 2008. These new warnings are taken from those developed by the European Union, and selected through a public consultation process.
Photo by Andy Bullock, Creative Commons Attribution License 2.0.
Singapore
Probably the most heart wrenching and shaking images of the lot. After July 1, 2004, cigarettes sold in Singapore were required to display 1 of the 6 health warning messages. The messages were required to cover at least 50% of the cigarette package front and back. On October 1, 2006, new health warnings come into effect.
Photo by Jenny 8. Lee, Creative Commons Attribution License 2.0.
For More Cigarette Warning Graphics From Other Countries, Click Here!
United States
The U.S. law requires 9 warnings. The public was invited to comment on the 36 proposed images until January 9, 2011. The warnings will be on packages by September 22, 2012.
