BACKGROUND AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES: Tobacco uses in Bangladesh remains a significant public health issue, with approximately 35.3% of adults using tobacco (GATS-2017). The country has a complex tobacco consumption pattern, with a variety and intricate packaging designs aimed at attracting consumers. One effective strategy to reduce tobacco use is the implementation of graphic health warnings (GHWs) on packaging. Since their introduction in 2016, the Tobacco Control and Research Cell of Dhaka International University has been monitoring their effectiveness. Despite challenges, the research team adopted a strategy to identify the supply chain, measure compliance, and report to enforcing authorities, resulting in a significant increase in compliance from 5% to 85%, fostering behavior change. This paper examines the strategies for effectively implementing GHWs in Bangladesh.
INTERVENTION OR RESPONSE: To mitigate the issues, TCRC adopted innovative compliance monitoring tactics. Firstly, the team developed a research protocol and compliance check list based on section 10 of tobacco control law. Secondly, identify the wholesale shops by searching from retail shops. Thirdly, measure the compliance and sensitize wholesale shopkeepers to create pressure to the producer to implement the pictorial warnings, otherwise they will face legal punishment. Fourthly, organized the press briefing to disseminate the violation and submit the report to the task-force committee.
RESULTS AND IMPACT: Pictorial implementation rate increased from 5% to 85% (2016 to 2024) and the public perception of tobacco packaging warnings shows that over 80% of smokers are aware of the health risks associated with tobacco use, but only 42% report that graphic health warnings influence their smoking behavior. Furthermore, evidence suggests that larger and more prominent images increase recall and the perceived seriousness of tobacco-related health risks.
CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the paper concludes that graphic health warnings, when properly designed and implemented, can serve as a powerful tool in Bangladesh’s broader efforts to reduce tobacco use, improve public health, and save lives.