Italy Launches Campaign to Increase Cigarette Prices and Combat Smoking
The Italian Association of Medical Oncology (Aiom), Airc, Aiom Foundation, and Veronesi Foundation have joined forces to launch a campaign aimed at increasing the price of cigarette packs and smoking products by 5 euros. The initiative, which has been gaining momentum in recent months, is now live, and adult citizens can sign the petition on the Ministry of Justice platform using their Spid, Cie (Electronic Identity Card), or Cns (National Services Card).
Objective: Reduce Smoking-Related Deaths and Fund the National Health Service
The campaign’s primary objective is twofold: to combat smoking and reduce the staggering 93,000 smoking-related deaths per year in Italy, which incur costs of over 26 billion euros, and to generate new resources for the National Health Service. The proposed price increase will apply to all smoking and nicotine inhalation products, including electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco. To present the bill to Parliament, 50,000 signatures are required.
According to Francesco Perrone, president of the Aiom Foundation, “We ask all citizens to sign and join this campaign, which represents a battle of civilization. Cigarette smoking is the main oncological risk factor, responsible for 27% of all cancer cases. For every week of smoking, a smoker loses one day of life, resulting in a terrible human cost with a dramatic social impact and on the sustainability of the NHS.” The estimated 5-euro price increase could lead to a 37% decrease in consumption, generating approximately 14 billion euros in revenue.
Experts Weigh In: A Drastic Measure to Combat Smoking
Experts emphasize that the recent 30-cent price increase per pack introduced by the latest budget law is insufficient, as it will not deter smokers. Daniele Finocchiaro, advisor to the Airc Foundation, notes that lung cancer is the “main cause of death from cancer in both sexes in EU countries, and tobacco control remains the pillar of prevention for this pathology.” Giulia Veronesi of the Umberto Veronesi Foundation highlights the alarming trend of increased smoking among women, with 20% of the female population being smokers, and a 84.3% increase in lung cancer incidence between 2003 and 2017.
Massimo Di Maio, president of Aiom, points out that international experiences have shown that a drastic price increase is an effective strategy to reduce the number of smokers. In Italy, almost a quarter of adults smoke, and the spread among younger people is worrying, with 10% of under 19s being smokers. The Italian Society of Environmental Medicine (Sima) suggests a broader strategy against all harmful substances, including a ‘sin tax’ on spirits, sugary drinks, and junk food, to adopt a more integrated approach to addressing health-damaging substances.
A Call to Action: Join the Campaign and Sign the Petition
Citizens are urged to sign the petition and join the campaign to combat smoking and reduce the devastating impact of tobacco-related deaths. The campaign’s success relies on the collective effort of individuals, experts, and organizations working together to create a healthier, more sustainable future. For more information and to sign the petition, visit the Ministry of Justice platform. Read more about the campaign Here