Effect of Graphic Warning Labels on Cigarette Packs on US Smokers’ Cognitions and Smoking Behavior After 3 Months A Randomized Clinical Trial

Source:

Strong DR, Pierce JP, Pulvers K, et al. Effect of Graphic Warning Labels on Cigarette Packs on US Smokers’ Cognitions and Smoking Behavior After 3 Months: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2021;4(8):e2121387. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.21387

Key Points

Question  Can graphic warning labels on cigarette packs affect cognitions and smoking behavior among US daily smokers who are not ready to quit smoking?

Findings  This randomized clinical trial found that graphic warning labels decreased positive perceptions of cigarettes associated with branded cigarette packs but without clearly increasing health concerns. They also increased quitting cognitions but did not affect either cigarette cessation or consumption levels.

Meaning  Placing graphic warning labels on US cigarette packs did not have an effect on smoking behavior; however, these findings suggest that they may enhance other tobacco control strategies to reduce cigarette smoking.