Cigarette packages will soon display larger, more graphic warning labels. The announcement was made this morning, according to a press release sent by the CDC. The more prominent labels will feature photos illustrating the harmful effects of smoking. This is the first change in cigarette warning labels in the U.S. in 25 years.
Starting in September of 2024, the new labels will be required to cover the top half of both the front and rear of cigarette packages. There are nine different images total, selected from an initial group of 35. They feature messages such as “WARNING: Cigarettes can cause cancer” and “WARNING: Tobacco smoke can harm your children.” By October 22, 2024 cigarette manufacturers will no longer be permitted to distribute cigarettes for sale in the U.S. without the warning labels.
The labels are part of a broader strategy to help Americans quit smoking. According to the FDA, tobacco use is the the leading cause of premature and preventable death in the country.
Image via the FDA.
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