The government is reviewing the $37 million it spends on stop smoking campaigns, because they don’t seem to be working.
In the past year, both the number of new smokers and the level of tobacco consumption have increased.
Twenty one percent of all Kiwis are smoking despite the millions of dollars poured into preventions.
Te Government is directing some of the blame at the cessation services. That means the $37 million the government pumps into the services is now under review.
It also means uncertain times ahead for support networks like Quit-Line.
Associate Health Minister, Tariana Turia announced the review today, where representatives from many of the anti-smoking groups agreed a new approach is needed.
Maori are over represented in smoking statistics, 45 percent aged between 15 and 64 are smokers.
In total, close to 5000 New Zealanders die each year from smoking related illness and Tariana Turia says the Government no longer cares about the revenue generated by tobacco tax.
The Maori Party’s Hone Harawira is trying to gain support for a bill which would eventually see a complete ban on tobacco.
But the changes which will more likely be made in the short term include the introduction of higher taxes on tobacco, tougher restrictions on its supply and a display ban in shops.
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I am a smoker who would like to quit I have looked into my health plan and it does not cover – cessation drugs to assist, smoking starts as a choice and quickly becomes an addiction , just like many drug and alcohol addictions THESE are covered the government would save Millions in health care coverage for Cancer caused by smoking if it would legislate coverage for those who have smoked for years and would like to quit but need the help in doing so. please let me know where I can get this type of assistance , my current income does not allow for a $300- 400 amount for medical Rx most people like myself are in the same boat….I spend approx $84.00 per month purchasing cigarettes (by buying low income brands) but need the help to kick this habit and it IS an addiction by a choice made years ago.