Graphic antismoking ads encourage smokers to quit

Graphic antismoking ads have played a key role in reducing New York City’s smoking rate in recent years, says NYT.

While the sight of a cigarette package has been found to prompt craving among smokers, research suggests that graphic warnings help motivate smokers to quit. That’s why so many countries now mandate them on cigarette packs.

Graphic antismoking ads have played a key role in reducing New York City’s smoking rate in recent years. When we surveyed New York City smokers who have seen the Health Department’s anti-tobacco television spots — spots that unsparingly depict the health consequences of smoking — more than half (57 percent) said the ads had increased their motivation to quit.

Really? You may wonder.