Examining the Impact of Development, Tobacco Taxation, and Tobacco Prices on Global Adult Male Smoking Prevalence

MICHAEL BRANDON TALLEY Examining the Impact of Development, Tobacco Taxation, and Tobacco Prices on Global Adult Male Smoking Prevalence (Under the direction of Michael Eriksen, Faculty Member) Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in the world. Nevertheless, the global tobacco epidemic continues to spread throughout much of the world, particularly in developing countries. Previous research suggests that smoking status may be associated with a variety of social, economic, and cultural factors. This study examines the impact of development, tobacco taxation, and tobacco prices on estimates of global adult male smoking prevalence. Data for this study was obtained from the United Nations’ Human Development Indices: A Statistical Update, 2008 and the World Health Organization’s Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic, 2009: Implementing Smoke-free Environments. Global adult male smoking prevalence was significantly associated with development, tobacco taxation, and tobacco prices. More rigorous examination of the link between male smoking prevalence and development, tobacco taxation, and tobacco prices is needed to strengthen tobacco control policies and interventions in developing and developed countries. INDEX WORDS: adult male smoking, development, tobacco taxation, tobacco prices EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF DEVELOPMENT, TOBACCO TAXATION, AND TOBACCO PRICES ON GLOBAL ADULT MALE SMOKING PREVALENCE