ASH CONCERNED ABOUT INCREASED NICITINE LEVELS

Date: 01 September 2006

1 September 2006

ASH Ireland asks Tobacco companies to confirm OR deny that nicotine levels have been increased

ASH Ireland today asked the Irish tobacco industry to confirm or deny whether or not nicotine levels in cigarettes on sale and in Ireland have had nicotine levels increased – in line with research that confirms this has happened elsewhere. A report published in US media to-day confirms that the levels of nicotine in several leading US brands has been increased by the manufactures by up to 10%. Two of these brands are on sale here in Ireland.

Professor Luke Clancy, said today, “A report just published by the Massachusetts Health Authorities shows that nicotine levels have been increased in cigarettes on sale in the U.S in recent years. We simply want to know and the consumer has a right to know if this nicotine increase applies here in Ireland. A deliberate increase in nicotine levels – when all of us are aware of the massive addiction qualities of this product - is an absolute disgrace. The increase in nicotine levels makes it easier to addict young people – and makes it much more difficult for smokers to quit – which of course is the objective of the tobacco industries involved”

Up to 7,000 people die in Ireland annually from tobacco related illness - and if it transpires that nicotine levels have been increased in Irish tobacco products - this can lead to further deaths and disease from smoking.

Professor Clancy, went on to say, “ I call on the government to put pressure on the tobacco industry in Ireland to confirm whether or not they have increased nicotine levels in tobacco products on the Irish market in recent years. Our consumers need and deserve to receive an honest and open response on this matter - as a matter of urgency”



Further information:

Wally Young, Young Communications, 01 668 0530., 087 247 1520
Professor Luke Clancy, 086 8364337


ASH Ireland is fully funded by the Irish Cancer Society and Irish Heart Foundation.