Blindness threat proves effective smoking deterrent

The threat of blindness deters smokers more than other health warnings, according to academic findings.

Researchers presenting at the British Thoracic Society Winter Meeting on December 5 said there was low awareness of the risk of blindness, but it had a much higher ‘deterring impact’.

Overall, it was found the longer people were exposed to the graphic health warnings on cigarette packets, the more their sensitivity and engagement was reduced.

The study, led by academic Culadeeban Ratneswaran from Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital, London, involved 266 participants, with 163 from London including 56 smokers, and 103 from Singapore including 55 smokers.