Strategies to Curb the Tobacco Epidemic in the Philippines: Experiences from Other Countries

Abstract

The use of tobacco is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The Philippines, which adopted legislation for curbing smoking in 2003, could learn effective strategies from the experiences of countries around the world that have had more years of experience and research as to what works and what does not. Strategies which are more effective include taxation, legislation of designated non-smoking areas, clear information as to the dangers of smoking on cigarette packages, selling cigarettes only in packs, and counter-advertising campaigns. An extensive international review of these and other strategies for curbing cigarette consumption is offered, considering how this information might be useful to the Philippines at this time.