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How effective is the plain packaging of tobacco policy on rates of intention to quit smoking and changing attitudes to smoking?
Author(s) -
Lilic Nick,
Stretton Matthew,
Prakash Minesh
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
anz journal of surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.426
H-Index - 70
eISSN - 1445-2197
pISSN - 1445-1433
DOI - 10.1111/ans.14679
Subject(s) - medicine , packaging and labeling , smoking cessation , tobacco use , medline , environmental health , marketing , population , pathology , political science , law , business
Background The aim of this study is to critically appraise the evidence for the effectiveness of the plain packaging of tobacco products policy. Methods A systematic approach to a literature review was undertaken using five databases: PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Global Health and Legacy Tobacco Documents Library. Quantitative and qualitative studies that evaluate attitudes towards smoking, starting smoking and quitting intentions when plain packaging use is compared with standard cigarette packaging use were included. Results A total of 1923 studies were identified. After inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, nine studies were included in the review. The overall quality of the data was variable but a significant number of the studies had major methodological flaws. However, data analysed in the literature review suggest that exposure to plain packaging increases intention to quit amongst exposed individuals, increases negative attitudes to both smoking and starting smoking. Conclusion Although the evidence for plain packaging of tobacco is not strong, the evidence that is available indicates that it is an effective tobacco cessation policy.