A comparison of three policy approaches for tobacco retailer reduction.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The Institute of Medicine recommends that public health agencies restrict the number and regulate the location of tobacco retailers as a means of reducing tobacco use. However, the best policy strategy for tobacco retailer reduction is unknown.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to test the percent reduction in the number and density of tobacco retailers in North Carolina resulting from three policies: (1) prohibiting sales of tobacco products in pharmacies or stores with a pharmacy counter, (2) restricting sales of tobacco products within 1000 ft of schools, and (3) regulating to 500 ft the minimum allowable distance between tobacco outlets.

Methods

This study uses data from two lists of tobacco retailers gathered in 2012, one at the statewide level, and

SUBMITTER: Myers AE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4563823 | biostudies-literature | 2015 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature