Higher cigarette taxes could save thousands of children's lives
May 01, 2025 by news-medical.net
Higher cigarette taxes could save thousands of children's lives
A study by Karolinska Institutet suggests higher cigarette taxes in low and middle-income countries could reduce child mortality, benefiting the poorest children. The research indicates that implementing WHO's recommended 75% tax could have potentially saved over 280,000 children's lives. The study analyzed data from 94 countries between 2008-2020, showing how increased cigarette taxes can improve child survival across all socioeconomic groups. Lead author Olivia Bannon emphasizes the importance of raising cigarette taxes to protect children's health, particularly in vulnerable populations. The study highlights the need to combat tobacco industry interference to implement effective tobacco control policies globally.
