The Economics of Tobacco Control



ABSTRACT

Tobacco use - and the resulting burden of disease and premature deaths - has been rising in many low- and middle-income countries. Many governments hesitate to implement proven policies to reduce tobacco use, fearing job and tax revenue losses. But tobacco control policies generate enormous health benefits without harming economies. In particular, tax increases are a highly effective policy tool for reducing consumption, especially among poor people and young people. Other policies that evidence from many countries shows to be effective and cost-effective include: bans on smoking in public places, comprehensive bans on tobacco advertising and promotion; better public information on the health risks of tobacco use and benefits of quitting including mass media counter-advertising and prominent labels on cigarette packs; and help for smokers who want to quit.


Published journal article (188KB PDF), external link.


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