Anti-tobacco organizations slam mini-cigarettes

Marlboro Intense -- introduced to the Turkish market in November 2007 by Philip Morris, a tobacco company partnered with Turkey’s Sabancı Holding -- is half an inch shorter than regular 8.4-centimeter Marlboros. The mini-cigarette allows smokers to smoke much more quickly than a regular cigarette but still delivers the same amount of nicotine as the full-size version.

“Cigarette consumers will give the most proper answer to those who see them as guinea pigs,” read the statement. It was stressed in the statement that the TÜ-MER and the Green Crescent have adopted a clear stance against all products and brands that are harmful to human health. “Smoking causes thousands of people to lose their lives each year, and our state spends billions of lira in the fight against diseases caused by tobacco-related products,” it said.

The statement also called on Turkish cigarette consumers to react against tobacco companies, which are reluctant to lose lucrative markets. “Certain circles are trying to sabotage our efforts for healthy individuals and a healthy society. The fact that a new cigarette brand is being tested first on Turkish smokers is not acceptable,” concluded the statement.

Meanwhile, the Bartın Municipality has decided to ban smoking in the municipal building in accordance with a new tobacco products law that will go into effect in May. The new law introduces strict bans on smoking in public places, including workplaces, restaurants and bars.

Bartın Mayor Ahmet Altınel also announced yesterday that the municipality would no longer be allowed to offer cigarettes to guests who attend wedding ceremonies.