Canadian warnings on cigarette packs

The Canadian government has introduced new rules that will force tobacco companies to place larger, more graphic warning labels on cigarette packs.



Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq says the new labels would cover three-quarters of the front and back of the packages, an increase from one-half.



They will feature warnings of tobacco-related diseases, like bladder cancer.



The new packaging will also list a telephone hotline aimed at helping those who want to quit smoking.



The Canadian health minister says there are also plans to launch a social media campaign targeting younger smokers.



She says Canada will begin drafting legislation for the new labels in early 2011, but it is unclear precisely when the new warnings will be implemented.