The intention to quit among smokers is based on information, motivation and the availability of cessation services. Smokers need to be informed on the consequences of tobacco use and the health benefits of cessation.
However, smoking is also closely linked to the social environment of the smoker. Appropriate anti-tobacco and counter-marketing regulations- ban on sale of tobacco to minors, ban on advertising, promotion and sponsorship, restrictions on packaging and labeling - create the favourable social climate for smoking cessation. Evidence suggests that media campaigns carried out in such an environment effectively stimulates smoking cessation. The use of appealing messages and pictures on tobacco packets and packages are increasingly used in tobacco control programmes to influence smokers to quit smoking. Thus a combination of communication strategies, including both interpersonal channels and public education campaigns, should be pursued to raise awareness and the intention to quit among smokers.