State variation in retail promotions and advertising for Marlboro cigarettes

Abstract

Background - There is some evidence that tobacco companies marketing efforts undermine the effects of comprehensive tobacco control programmes. Objective - To determine whether point-of-purchase advertising and promotions are more pervasive in states where comprehensive tobacco control programmes are underway. Design - Cross sectional survey using 1996 data, with merged records of the existence of local tobacco advertising restrictions. Participants and setting - 581 tobacco retail stores located in close proximity to high schools in mainland USA. Main outcome measures - Existence of gift-with-purchase, number of interior advertisements, and exterior store advertisements for Marlboro cigaret..