A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health finds that when sttes fund stop smoking initiatives it works, potentially, providing savings in health care costs.

According to researchers the study examined, “ the association between cumulative state anti-tobacco program expenditures and changes in adult smoking prevalence” for data between 1985 and 2003.

“It appears that sustained, well-funded programs become increasingly effective over time,” said the study’s lead author, Matthew Farrelly.

Adult smoking declined faster and in greater numbers in states with well-funded and multi-level anti-smoking programs, according to researchers. The most successful programs combined several strategies to reduce smoking; like education, clinical support, regulatory mandates, and economic.

“Program expenditures were more effective in reducing smoking prevalence among adults aged 25 or older than for adults aged 18 to 24 years, whereas cigarette prices had a stronger effect on adults aged 18 to 24 years.” Said researchers.

Based upon the data, researchers estimated that there would have been between 2.2 million to 7.1 million fewer U.S. smokers by 2003 if all 50 states had a well funded comprehensive anti-smoking program in 1995.

Source
American Journal of Public Health