Developing A Critical Evaluation Of Tobacco Control Policy

1.0 Introduction 1.1 Purpose and scope This paper has the purpose of developing a critical evaluation of tobacco control policy in Australia. It will review and describe some of the various governmental policies on tobacco, and discuss evidence that shows the impact of these policies. 1.2 Methodology Desk research was conducted by accessing relevant governmental and Commonwealth websites for legislative requirements. Information about public and private external organisations was gathered by internet research, not using specific data bank. 2.0 Tobacco control policies in Australia Tobacco smoking is one of the more prominent lifestyle behaviours contributing to health risk in Australia. Circulatory diseases health and economic†¦show more content†¦2.1 Smoke free cars At least 69 compounds derived from tobacco smoking are known carcinogens. Second-hand smoke (SHS) contains those chemicals in different proportions, exposing non-smokers to harmful conditions (American Cancer Society, 2014). Whilst adults have the choice to be exposed to SHS, children often do not have the chance of expressing their preference( American Cancer Society, 2014), especially when travelling in cars. Among other factors, breathing in SHS increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, development of asthma, bronchitis and pneumonia, meningitis, coughs and colds and otitis media (Royal College of Physicians, 2010). Most of Australians (88%) reported using a passenger vehicle to get to places other than work in 2012, such as to go shopping or visiting family and friends. Considering that children aged between 5 and 6 years old spend an average of 68 minutes/day travelling in the car (Baxter Hayes, 2012) , it is important to guard them from environmental tobacco smoke. As observed by Chapman Freeman (2007), car manufacturers operating in Australia have replaced cigarette lighters with a power source for electronic equipment and ashtrays do not exist in most models. Most European cars have abandoned the idea of having the smokers kit as well. Apart from the Northern