Smokers are confused about terms like "light" and "mild" when applied to cigarettes, with many thinking they contain less tar, according to researchers from Australia.

Scoop Independent News of New Zealand reported May 3 that phone interviews of 788 smokers conducted by researchers from Massey University and the University of South Australia found that smokers are apt to assign healthier attributes to "light" cigarettes. "Smokers often view light variants as a means of maintaining a smoking habit while minimizing the harm they believe will result from this," said researcher Janey Hoek of Massey University.

Australia recently inked a deal with cigarette companies to eliminate use of the terms "light" and "mild." Cigarette makers intend to use terms like "fresh," "fine," and "smooth" in their place, but Hoek called for more research before authorities let the switch go forward.