Fiji: Respect Non-smokers: Health Ministry

Source from:  Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) (fj)  04/17/2013

There is a lot of talk about the new cigarette packets which will be rolled out in July.

They will carry disturbing graphic warnings of the health implications of smoking.

Health Ministry Spokesperson, Shalvin Deo says people's responses won't deter the work they are doing.

"We are trying everything to discourage people from smoking and know it's up to the smoker, and as you know that 80% of all deaths in Fiji are related to NCD's and smoking is one of the major contributing factor to NCD's"

This is what people had to say to the new graphic warnings which will be rolled out soon.

"For young people it's going to be a good reminder for them to stop smoking."

"It's up to the people, picture or no picture, they have to decide."

"It discourages our younger generation from getting into the habit."

"I think it's a good idea because it'll help people and encourage them not to smoke."

As of October, all tobacco products including domestic, duty free and retail, have to carry the graphic warnings and non-compliance will result in hefty fines. Enditem