As well as continuing TV, radio, web and cinema advertising across member states, the campaign will also involve more than 100 national events for Europeans to be tested for carbon monoxide in an awareness-raising drive. It is expected that more than 50,000 tests will take place up until November.
High levels of carbon monoxide can attribute to serious heart problems, blood clots and disrupted development of unborn babies in pregnant women.
?I quit smoking over fifteen years ago, and luckily the carbon monoxide levels in my breath are back down to normal levels. But many young people are starting the habit every day, and this campaign is designed to raise awareness of the health risks linked to the carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke,? said Commissioner Kyprianou.
?Health-care costs caused by smoking top ?100 billion per year in Europe and smoking has become the main preventable killer of our time. The HELP campaign has been very successful so far in getting the message across that smokers can get help to quit, and warning young people of the risks of passive smoking and addiction. With this carbon monoxide campaign, the ?HELP? campaign is stepping up a gear to promote a life without tobacco.?