RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Population level policy options for increasing the prevalence of smokefree homes
JF Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health
JO J Epidemiol Community Health
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
SP 298
OP 304
DO 10.1136/jech.2005.038091
VO 60
IS 4
A1 George Thomson
A1 Nick Wilson
A1 Philippa Howden-Chapman
YR 2006
UL http://jech.bmj.com/content/60/4/298.abstract
AB Objective: To identify and evaluate the options for population level government policies to increase the prevalence of homes free of secondhand smoke. Methods: The literature was searched for population level policy options and evidence on them. Three criteria were used to evaluate the policy options: effectiveness, the reductions on inequalities in secondhand smoke exposure, and cost effectiveness. The setting was four developed, English speaking jurisdictions: Britain, USA, Australia, and New Zealand. Results: Evidence from all four countries shows some association between relatively comprehensive tobacco control programmes and lower prevalence levels of smoking in homes. The evidence of the effect of such programmes on inequalities in smokefree home prevalence is limited. No published evidence was found of the cost effectiveness of the programmes in achieving changes in smokefree homes. Within comprehensive programmes, there is some indirect evidence that some mass media campaigns could increase the prevalence of smokefree homes. Structural options that have potential to support smokefree homes include smokefree places legislation, and laws for the protection of children. Conclusion: The available evidence to date suggests that comprehensive tobacco control programmes (to reduce the prevalence of smoking in the total population) are likely to be the most effective and sustainable option for increasing the prevalence of smokefree homes.