European Commissioner for Health launches phase two of anti-smoking campaign

John Dalli, European Commissioner for Health today launched phase two of the European Commission's anti-smoking campaign. He announced that over 500,000 Europeans to date have demonstrated their support for the campaign - "Ex-smokers are Unstoppable" - by accessing its social media pages.

The "Ex-smokers are Unstoppable" campaign, unveiled in June this year, aims to help 25-34 year olds to quit or continue to stay away from tobacco and become "unstoppable" in their smoke-free lives. Uniquely "Unstoppable" promotes the positive benefits of a life without tobacco; which include better health, better social interaction, more money and of course a better quality of life.

"I am delighted with the response to date" said Commissioner Dalli. "I am particularly pleased that over 500,000 smokers have accessed the campaign's social media pages across Europe, and that within three months more than 20,000 smokers are already actively using iCoach, our interactive smoking cessation tool. iCoach offers support with practical tips and advice as you move through the stages of smoking cessation. This represents the first time an EU campaign has offered practical help."

"The EU has conducted extensive research into its latest campaign," Commissioner Dalli continued. "An overwhelming 77% of those interviewed agreed that our message is working. We will continue to work on our messages to make sure they are strong, respond to our youth's demands and have an impact."

Phase two of the campaign consists of a comprehensive advertising campaign on the benefits of smoking cessation in all EU Member States, participation at sporting, consumer and health events and partnering with key employers to promote smoking cessation in the workplace. These events will allow young Europeans to see the tools, advice and information for themselves.

"I gave up smoking myself some years ago" said Commissioner Dalli, "and I know how difficult it can be. I believe that with this new campaign and supporting tool, we will genuinely be able to make a difference to people's lives and help them become 'unstoppable'. "