price of cigarettes in ohio The Impact of Cigarette Prices on Smoking Disparities in Ohio

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## Introduction

Smoking prevalence among rural Americans and individuals of lower socioeconomic status (SES) in the United States continues to be higher compared to their urban and higher SES counterparts. This disparity can be attributed to various factors, including differences in the retail environment and tobacco control policies. In this article, we will explore the association between neighborhood demographics and cigarette prices in rural and urban areas of Ohio. By understanding these associations, we can identify potential tobacco control policies that can help reduce smoking disparities and promote health equity across populations.

Background

For over two decades, the prevalence of smoking has been consistently higher in rural areas compared to urban areas in the United States. This gap is widening over time, indicating the need for targeted interventions in rural communities. Youth in rural areas are also more likely to smoke compared to their urban counterparts, further exacerbating the disparity. In addition to rurality, lower SES is another factor associated with higher smoking rates among adults. Individuals living in census tracts with lower SES are more likely to be smokers, even after controlling for other demographic factors.

The tobacco industry has historically targeted specific areas based on sociodemographic characteristics. For instance, increased advertising at tobacco retailers has been observed in census tracts with a higher proportion of non-White individuals and lower SES. Lower cigarette prices have been used as a marketing strategy to attract and retain smokers, particularly those with lower incomes. This pricing strategy contributes to disparities in smoking prevalence between rural and urban areas.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the association between neighborhood sociodemographic characteristics, such as poverty level and race, and cigarette prices in urban and rural regions of Ohio. By analyzing these associations, we can gain insights into the underlying factors contributing to smoking disparities and inform the development of effective tobacco control policies. price of cigarettes in ohio

Method

The study collected data on cigarette prices from a random sample of tobacco retailers in urban and rural areas of Ohio in 2016. Prices of Marlboro Reds, Newport menthols, and the cheapest cigarettes in the store were recorded. These prices were then analyzed in relation to census tract demographics, including SES and race. The study controlled for store type to account for potential confounding factors.

Results

In the rural region of Ohio, higher census tract income was associated with lower prices of Marlboro and Newport cigarettes. Conversely, the price of the cheapest pack of cigarettes increased as census tract income increased. In the urban region, as the percentage of White non-Hispanic individuals in the census tract increased, the price of Marlboro cigarettes decreased. However, no significant associations were found between census tract characteristics and the price of Newport cigarettes or the cheapest cigarettes.

Discussion

The findings of this study highlight a complex association between cigarette brand, prices, and area characteristics. In rural areas with lower SES, the cheapest brands of cigarettes are available at lower prices. These lower-priced cigarettes may contribute to higher smoking rates in these populations. On the other hand, in urban areas, the price of Marlboro cigarettes decreases as the percentage of White non-Hispanic individuals in the census tract increases. These findings underscore the need for targeted tobacco control policies that address the availability and pricing of cheap cigarettes.

Implications

Tobacco control policies, such as minimum price laws, have the potential to reduce smoking disparities in both rural and urban populations. By increasing the price of cheap cigarettes, particularly in lower SES rural areas, these policies can discourage smoking initiation among youth and promote smoking cessation among adults. Additionally, efforts should be made to regulate tobacco advertising and marketing practices, especially in areas with higher concentrations of non-White individuals and lower SES.

Conclusion

Smoking disparities between rural and urban populations in Ohio can be attributed, in part, to differences in cigarette prices and area characteristics. Understanding these associations is crucial for developing effective tobacco control strategies that promote health equity. By targeting the availability and pricing of cheap cigarettes, implementing minimum price laws, and regulating tobacco advertising, it is possible to reduce smoking disparities and improve public health outcomes in both rural and urban communities.

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References

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