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Saenz-de-Miera B, Welding K, Tseng TY, Grilo G, Cohen JE. Tobacco industry pricing strategies during recent tax adjustments in Mexico: evidence from sales data. Tob Control 2024:tc-2024-058711. [PMID: 39107105 DOI: 10.1136/tc-2024-058711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previous studies have identified pricing strategies that the tobacco industry employs to try to minimise the impact of tobacco taxation, but these studies are mostly about high-income countries. This research examines industry price responses to a recent cigarette tax increase in Mexico, including in the capsule cigarette segment that has expanded rapidly in Latin America. METHODS Data of cigarette prices and sales in Mexico between October 2018 and September 2021 licensed from NielsenIQ were used following a quasi-experimental design to analyse price changes after excise tax increases with fixed effect models by product. To explore heterogeneous responses, estimates were disaggregated by cigarette attributes such as presence of capsules and market segment. Differential shifting was also assessed. RESULTS Increasing the tobacco tax from 2011MX$0.35(≈US$0.02) to 2020 MX$0.4944(≈US$0.0283) in January 2020 was associated with an overall 8% cigarette price increase in real terms. However, some cigarette types, including premium to discount segments, exhibited price increases larger than the tax increase, which reduced the relative price of ultra-low-priced cigarettes. Instead of a single hike, prices were gradually raised throughout the first months of 2020 for all cigarette types. A combination of both pricing strategies was employed for capsule cigarettes. The 2021 smaller tax adjustment for annual inflation was fully passed onto consumer, maintaining real prices constant. CONCLUSIONS The industry's ability to raise prices more than the tax increase and manage these price increases smoothly suggests that there was room for larger tobacco tax increases in Mexico. Future developments on tobacco taxes could consider a fully specific tax structure or minimum taxes to mitigate the adverse effects of market segmentation and differential shifting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belen Saenz-de-Miera
- Department of Economics, Autonomous University of Baja California Sur, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | - Kevin Welding
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tuo-Yen Tseng
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Graziele Grilo
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joanna E Cohen
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Tseng TY, Welding K, Saenz-de-Miera B, Grilo G, Cohen JE. The Use of Packaging Descriptors in a Rapidly Growing Market for Capsule Cigarettes: Evidence From Mexico. Nicotine Tob Res 2024; 26:1014-1021. [PMID: 37987638 PMCID: PMC11260890 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntad208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The global market for capsule cigarettes has grown rapidly, especially in Latin America. This research examined the sales trends and patterns as well as packaging characteristics of capsule cigarette in Mexico in recent years. METHODS National data on cigarette sales in Mexico between October 2018 and September 2021 licensed from NielsenIQ were supplemented with cigarette pack pictures and Internet searches to determine whether characterizing flavor, concept flavor, and action descriptors were used. Market share in sales value and volume was calculated by capsule and flavor status, descriptors, price tier, manufacturer, pack size, and cigarette length for the whole time period and for each month. Number of unique brand variants was also examined. RESULTS Capsule cigarette sales totaled US$4.29 billion or 30.99 billion sticks during the assessed period, comprising 37.7% of the cigarette market share in sales value or 35.5% in sales volume. Over half of capsule cigarettes sold during this time period had concept flavor descriptors, 17.8% contained characterizing flavor descriptors, and 15.1% contained action descriptors that were suggestive of the interactive aspects of capsules. The monthly market share of capsule cigarette sales volume among all cigarette sales in Mexico increased steadily from 33.3% in October 2018 to 37.3% in September 2021. CONCLUSIONS The expanding capsule cigarette market in Mexico is concerning, given the product's associated misconceptions of reduced harm and greater appeal among youth. Findings underline the need for enhanced regulations to address the public health threat posed by capsule cigarettes. IMPLICATIONS Capsule cigarettes have a substantial market share in Mexico, with increasing popularity. Descriptors and other product characteristics such as cigarette length might be used to increase the appeal and target particular populations. Policy makers should consider banning capsules and flavors in cigarettes including descriptors or other indication in product presentation that could be perceived as denoting a taste, aroma, or sensation, and making the appearance and design of tobacco products more commensurate with the harm they cause by adopting plain and standardized packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo-Yen Tseng
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kevin Welding
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Belen Saenz-de-Miera
- Department of Economics, Autonomous University of Baja California Sur, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | - Graziele Grilo
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joanna E Cohen
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Mus S, Barrientos I, Vidaña-Pérez D, Monzon J, Barnoya J, Page MK, Block AC, Goniewicz ML, O’Connor RJ, Thrasher JF. Chemicals in Cigarette Flavor Capsules From Guatemala and Mexico. Nicotine Tob Res 2024; 26:545-551. [PMID: 37930843 PMCID: PMC11033577 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntad216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global market share for cigarettes with flavor capsules has grown exponentially over the last decade, particularly in Latin America. When smoking, consumers crush a liquid capsule in the filter that flavors the smoke. Little is known about the chemical constituents of the liquids in capsules or their potential health risks. METHODS Based on consumer data and availability in Mexico and Guatemala, 31 flavor capsule brands were purchased (19 and 12, respectively) in 2020. Since some cigarettes included multiple capsules in a stick (up to 2) or pack (up to 4), the final analytic sample included 50 capsules. We conducted qualitative and quantitative analyses using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC-MS, Agilent Technologies, Inc). RESULTS The qualitative analysis detected 296 compounds (range = 9-67 per capsule), and all capsules contained menthol. Among the compounds detected in more than half the sample were limonene, menthone, benzaldehyde, eucalyptol, and triacetin. Traces of nicotine were found in 22% of the capsules. In the quantitative analysis, menthol concentrations were 33 times greater than the next most common compound (limonene). Benzyl alcohol and vanillin were also found in high concentrations. Comparing same-brand varieties across countries showed substantial variability in the concentration of menthol and other compounds. CONCLUSIONS Menthol is an omnipresent constituent in capsule cigarettes, perhaps because of its anesthetizing and reinforcing addictive properties. Other compounds found are toxic, potentially carcinogenic, and may enhance addictiveness. Variance in the presence and concentrations of such compounds highlights the importance of product standards to regulate capsule content. IMPLICATIONS This study evaluated the chemical content of capsule cigarettes from two Latin American countries that have two of the highest market shares for capsule cigarettes worldwide. Compared to other studies, our assessment included brand varieties from two countries to compare the differences in chemical content by country. Our results yield that menthol is found in all capsules, and that other chemicals found may prolong nicotine exposure and therefore reinforce the addictive properties of cigarettes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Mus
- Unidad de Cirugía Cardiovascular de Guatemala, UNICAR, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Inti Barrientos
- Centro de Investigación en Salud Poblacional, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública. Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Desirée Vidaña-Pérez
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - José Monzon
- Unidad de Cirugía Cardiovascular de Guatemala, UNICAR, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Joaquin Barnoya
- Unidad de Cirugía Cardiovascular de Guatemala, UNICAR, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Michelle K Page
- Department of Health Behavior, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ashleigh C Block
- Department of Health Behavior, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Maciej L Goniewicz
- Department of Health Behavior, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Richard J O’Connor
- Department of Health Behavior, Division of Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - James F Thrasher
- Centro de Investigación en Salud Poblacional, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública. Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
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Kyriakos CN, Erinoso O, Driezen P, Thrasher JF, Katanoda K, Quah ACK, Tabuchi T, Perez CDA, Seo HG, Kim SY, Nordin ASA, Hairi FM, Fong GT, Filippidis FT. Prevalence and perceptions of flavour capsule cigarettes among adults who smoke in Brazil, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia and Mexico: findings from the ITC surveys. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e083080. [PMID: 38642995 PMCID: PMC11033647 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-083080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The global market of flavour capsule cigarettes (FCCs) has grown significantly over the past decade; however, prevalence data exist for only a few countries. This study examined prevalence and perceptions of FCCs among adults who smoke across five countries. METHODS Cross-sectional data among adults who smoked cigarettes came from the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project Surveys-Brazil (2016/2017), Japan (2021), Republic of Korea (2021), Malaysia (2020) and Mexico (2021). FCCs use was measured based on reporting one's usual/current brand or favourite variety has flavour capsule(s). Perceptions of the harmfulness of one's usual brand versus other brands were compared between those who used capsules versus no capsules. Adjusted logistic regression models examined correlates of FCC use. RESULTS There were substantial differences in the prevalence of FCC use among adults who smoke across the five countries: Mexico (50.3% in 2021), Republic of Korea (31.8% in 2021), Malaysia (26.5% in 2020), Japan (21.6% in 2021) and Brazil (6.7% in 2016/2017). Correlates of FCC use varied across countries. Capsule use was positively associated with being female in Japan and Mexico, younger age in Japan, Republic of Korea and Malaysia, high education in Brazil, Japan and Mexico, non-daily smoking in Republic of Korea, and having plans to quit in Japan and Republic of Korea. There was no consistent pattern of consumer perceptions of brand harmfulness. CONCLUSION Our study documented the high prevalence of FCCs in some countries, pointing to the need to develop and implement regulatory strategies to control these attractive products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina N Kyriakos
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Pete Driezen
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - James F Thrasher
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kota Katanoda
- Division of Cancer Statistics Integration, Center for Cancer Control and Information Services, National Cancer Center Japan, Chuo-ku, Japan
| | - Anne C K Quah
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Takahiro Tabuchi
- Cancer Control Center, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
| | - Cristina de Abreu Perez
- National School of Public Health Sérgio Arouca, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Hong Gwan Seo
- Department of Family Medicine, National Cancer Center, Goyang, South Korea
- Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Su Young Kim
- National Tobacco Control Center, Korean Health Promotion Institute, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Amer Siddiq Amer Nordin
- Nicotine Addiction Research Group, Centre of Addiction Sciences, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Farizah Mohd Hairi
- Nicotine Addiction Research Group, Centre of Addiction Sciences, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Geoffrey T Fong
- School of Public Health Sciences and Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Filippos T Filippidis
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London School of Public Health, London, UK
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Grilo G, Cohen JE, Reynales-Shigematsu LM, Welding K, Flores Escartin MG, Madar A, Clegg Smith K. Cultural appropriation on Marlboro packs in Mexico: ofrenda symbolism a cruel irony. Tob Control 2023; 32:806-808. [PMID: 35217595 PMCID: PMC10646926 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-057215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Graziele Grilo
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Joanna E Cohen
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Luz Myriam Reynales-Shigematsu
- Departamento de Prevención y Control de Tabaquismo, Centro de Investigación en Salud Poblacional, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Kevin Welding
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Maria Guadalupe Flores Escartin
- Departamento de Prevención y Control de Tabaquismo, Centro de Investigación en Salud Poblacional, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Alena Madar
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Katherine Clegg Smith
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Rajani NB, Qi D, Chang K, Kyriakos CN, Filippidis FT. Price differences between capsule, menthol non-capsule and unflavoured cigarettes in 65 countries in 2018. Prev Med Rep 2023; 34:102252. [PMID: 37252069 PMCID: PMC10220479 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The global consumption of flavoured cigarettes, particularly capsule and menthol non-capsule cigarettes, has been rising rapidly. Their attractiveness has been fuelled by perceptions of improved palatability, along with industry marketing tactics such as lower price points in some regions. This study aimed to compare prices of unflavoured, capsule, and menthol non-capsule cigarettes across 65 countries by analysing 2018 cigarette price data from Euromonitor Passport. Median prices of capsule and menthol non-capsule cigarettes were each compared to unflavoured cigarettes at the country-level. Countries were included in the analysis if they contained price data for capsule or menthol non-capsule and unflavoured cigarettes (n = 65). The median price of capsule cigarettes was the same as unflavoured cigarettes in 12 out of 50 countries and not statistically different in another 31 countries (p > 0.05). Capsule cigarettes were more expensive than unflavoured cigarettes in five countries and cheaper in two (p < 0.05). The median price of menthol non-capsule cigarettes was the same as unflavoured cigarettes in 6 out of 51 countries and not statistically different in another 39 countries (p > 0.05). Menthol non-capsule cigarettes were more expensive than unflavoured cigarettes in five countries and cheaper in one country (p < 0.05). There was no pattern found in the pricing of capsule or menthol non-capsule cigarettes, suggesting variability in the tobacco industry's pricing strategies across countries. Tailoring tobacco control policies to match national market conditions, particularly in countries with significant market shares of capsule and menthol non-capsule cigarettes could help address the public health threat posed by the tobacco epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita B Rajani
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Dickson Qi
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Kiara Chang
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Christina N Kyriakos
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Filippos T Filippidis
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
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Brown JL, Grilo G, Cohen JE, Clegg Smith K, Reynales-Shigematsu LM, Flores Escartin MG, Moran MB. Colours, capsules and concept flavour names on cigarette packs appeal to youth in Mexico. Tob Control 2023; 32:e16-e22. [PMID: 35017261 PMCID: PMC10086463 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-056905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Flavoured cigarettes are popular in Mexico. We examined how cigarette packaging design features used to communicate flavour influence perceptions of appeal, harm, perceived interest and pack preference among Mexico City residents. METHODS We conducted an experimental survey. Participants aged 13-34 years were randomly assigned to one of three conditions, viewed packs with systematically manipulated design features (colour, capsule image and flavour name) and answered questions on appeal, perceived harm, perceived interest and pack preference. Data were analysed using mixed effects and conditional logistic regression. RESULTS 1500 adolescents and 950 adults participated. Regardless of flavour, cigarette packs with a background colour and capsule image were more appealing to adolescents (OR=13.19, 95% CI 11.53 to 15.10; OR=1.68, 95% CI 1.45 to 1.88) and adults (OR=4.18, 95% CI 3.73 to 4.69; OR=1.66, 95% CI 1.49 to 1.85) than packs without. Among adolescents, 'Tropical Burst' named packs were more appealing (OR=1.43, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.72) than packs without a flavour name and among adults, 'Arctic Air' named packs were more appealing (OR=1.20, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.14). Adolescents and adults reported a preference for trying packs that displayed a flavour name, background colour or capsule image (b=0.104, b=0.702, b=1.316, p<0.001 and b=0.126, b=0.619, b=0.775, p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Colours and flavour capsule images appeal to adolescents and adults in Mexico. Mexico should consider adopting plain packaging to reduce appeal and interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Brown
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Graziele Grilo
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Joanna E Cohen
- Institute for Global Tobacco Control, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Katherine Clegg Smith
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Luz Myriam Reynales-Shigematsu
- Departamento de Prevención y Control de Tabaquismo, Centro de Investigación en Salud Poblacional, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Maria Guadalupe Flores Escartin
- Departamento de Prevención y Control de Tabaquismo, Centro de Investigación en Salud Poblacional, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Meghan Bridgid Moran
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Kyriakos CN, Zatoński MZ, Filippidis FT. Flavour capsule cigarette use and perceptions: a systematic review. Tob Control 2023; 32:e83-e94. [PMID: 34607888 PMCID: PMC10086486 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-056837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This systematic review on flavour capsule cigarettes aims to examine prevalence, correlates of use, behaviours and perceptions of these products globally. DATA SOURCES A search of original, peer-reviewed research without restrictions in publication year, population, study design or language, using a combination of cigarette and capsule terms was conducted across four databases (Medline, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus), indexed until 30 April 2021. STUDY SELECTION Studies were included if they presented original, human subjects research on flavour capsule cigarettes. DATA EXTRACTION Two authors independently extracted data on main outcome results and assessed risk of bias using a validated quality assessment tool (QATSDD). DATA SYNTHESIS Of 842 unduplicated database records and four studies from citation searching screened, 20 studies were included in the review. Studies reported data from 2009 to 2019 across eight countries, the majority of which used cross-sectional or focus group study designs. Current capsule use among smokers was highest in Chile and Mexico (40%) and was associated with younger age, and in some countries, with being female. Capsule cigarettes are perceived as tasting better, being smoother on the throat, more fun to smoke, and more attractive compared with non-capsule cigarettes, particularly among susceptible non-smokers and non-daily smokers. CONCLUSION Findings call for the adoption of comprehensive tobacco control policies that account for flavour capsules and similar iterations, which can increase appeal through flavours and innovative features. Continued monitoring and research of these products is critical, with particular attention to low-income and middle-income countries, which make up a disproportionately larger share of the capsule market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina N Kyriakos
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Mateusz Zygmunt Zatoński
- Tobacco Control Research Group, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- European Observatory of Health Inequalities, Calisia University, Kalisz, Poland
| | - Filippos T Filippidis
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Kyriakos CN, Zatoński MZ, Filippidis FT. Marketing of flavour capsule cigarettes: a systematic review. Tob Control 2023; 32:e103-e112. [PMID: 35042725 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-057082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This systematic review aims to identify marketing elements of flavour capsule variants (FCVs), cigarettes that release flavour when a capsule(s) embedded in the filter is crushed. DATA SOURCES A search of original research without restrictions in publication year, population, study design or language using a combination of cigarette and capsule terms was conducted across four databases (Medline, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus), indexed until 13 December 2021, along with a citation search. STUDY SELECTION Studies were included if they presented original research relevant to marketing features of FCVs. DATA EXTRACTION One author performed data extraction and coded outcomes based on '4Ps' of marketing mix theory: product, place, price and promotion. The second author conducted a cross-check. DATA SYNTHESIS Of 2436 unduplicated database records and 30 records from other sources, 40 studies were included in the review. Studies were published between 2009 and 2021. Study methodologies primarily included content analysis of cigarette packs/sticks, review of tobacco industry documents and content analysis of advertising information. Findings suggest FCVs are marketed using a mix of strategies, particularly characterised by product innovation, timing market launches around tobacco policies, point-of-sale advertising and packaging to communicate a high-tech, customisable and flavourful product. CONCLUSION Findings illuminate the marketing strategies of FCVs that are likely driving their global growth, particularly among young people and in low and middle-income countries. Comprehensive tobacco control regulations are needed to close loopholes and curb industry efforts to circumvent existing policies in order to mitigate uptake of FCVs and other product innovations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina N Kyriakos
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London School of Public Health, London, UK
| | - Mateusz Zygmunt Zatoński
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- European Observatory of Health Inequalities, Calisia University, Kalisz, Poland
| | - Filippos T Filippidis
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London School of Public Health, London, UK
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Ogunnaike A, Gallegos-Carrillo K, Barrientos-Gutierrez I, Arillo Santillán E, Cho YJ, Thrasher JF. Why Smoke Flavor Capsule Cigarettes? Preferences and Perceptions Among Adult Smokers in Mexico. Nicotine Tob Res 2022; 24:1635-1644. [PMID: 35244723 PMCID: PMC9575969 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntac057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Flavor capsule cigarettes are rapidly gaining global market share, particularly in Latin America; however, little is known about consumer profiles and perceptions since the diffusion of this product innovation has become more widespread. AIMS AND METHODS This paper compares profiles and perceptions of smokers who prefer flavor capsule cigarettes and those who do not in Mexico. We analyzed data from six online surveys of adult Mexican smokers (n = 4488) from 2018-2020. Participants identified their preferred brand variety characteristics (no capsule; one capsule; two capsules), and reported perceptions of their brand varieties' flavor, smoothness, harmfulness, and whether they smoke to control their appetite. Separate multinomial logistic models regressed preferred cigarette type on sociodemographic and smoking-related variables, as well as perceived benefits on preferred cigarette type, adjusting for covariates. RESULTS Most participants preferred capsule cigarettes (single capsule = 47.5%; double capsule = 12.9%). Flavor capsule users reported that their preferred varieties mostly tasted like menthol/mint (59% of single capsule users and 23% of double capsule users), cucumber (12% and 27%, respectively) or berries (10% and 22%, respectively). Females were more likely than males to prefer either single or double capsule cigarettes (AOR = 2.26 and 2.01, respectively). Preference for flavor capsules was also higher among younger smokers, e-cigarette users, those who smoke less frequently, and those who recently tried or plan to quit. Smokers who preferred capsules were more likely than non-capsule smokers to perceive their cigarettes as smoother, less harmful, and to smoke to control their appetite. CONCLUSIONS The high prevalence of capsule use and widespread perceptions of the benefits of capsules over traditional cigarettes may help explain why tobacco control policies have not reduced smoking prevalence in Mexico. IMPLICATIONS Flavor capsules are rapidly growing in popularity in many countries around the world, including Mexico. This study found that more Mexican adult smokers prefer brand varieties with capsules (60%) than without capsules (40%), that flavor capsule use strongly correlates with menthol cigarette use, and that perceived flavors of capsules range widely. Flavor capsule smokers have more positive smoking expectancies (eg, lower risk perceptions, dietary control) than noncapsule smokers. Capsules appeal particularly to women, young adults, less frequent smokers, and those who recently tried to quit. Policies should consider banning flavors in cigarettes, including capsules and other filter innovations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adebusola Ogunnaike
- Department of Health Promotion, Education & Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Katia Gallegos-Carrillo
- Epidemiology and Health Services Research Unit–Morelos, Mexican Social Security Institute, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Inti Barrientos-Gutierrez
- Evaluation and Surveys Research Center/Tobacco Research Department, National Institute of Public Health, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Edna Arillo Santillán
- Evaluation and Surveys Research Center/Tobacco Research Department, National Institute of Public Health, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Yoo Jin Cho
- Department of Health Promotion, Education & Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - James F Thrasher
- Department of Health Promotion, Education & Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Evaluation and Surveys Research Center/Tobacco Research Department, National Institute of Public Health, Mexico City, Mexico
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Reynales-Shigematsu LM, Sáenz-de-Miera B, Llorente B, Maldonado N, Shanon G, Jha P. [Benefits of the cigarette tax in Mexico, by sex and income quintileBenefícios do imposto sobre cigarros no México: análise por sexo e quintil de renda]. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2022; 46:e80. [PMID: 36211240 PMCID: PMC9534347 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2022.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Estimate economic and health benefits, by sex and income quintile, of tax-based cigarette price increases in Mexico. Methods An extended cost-effectiveness analysis (ECEA) model was used to estimate distributional benefits for women and men in the scenario of a 44% increase in the price of cigarettes (from 56.4 Mexican pesos [MX$] to MX$81.2 per pack), as a result of tripling the current specific excise tax (from MX$0.49/cigarette to MX$1.49/cigarette). The model was calibrated with official national information sources. Results With a tax increase of one peso per cigarette, about 1.5 million smokers would quit (351 300 women and 1.1 million men). This would prevent approximately 630 000 smoking-attributable premature deaths. Reducing the burden of disease would save the health sector close to MX$42.8 billion and prevent more than 250 000 people (including 50 200 women smokers) from falling into poverty. It would also result in an additional MX$16.2 billion in revenue per year, of which the lowest income quintile would contribute less than 3% (1% for low-income women). Conclusions The tobacco epidemic has clearly differentiated patterns between women and men, reflecting a gender component. While the tobacco tax in Mexico would have great benefits with respect to the current state of the epidemic, this could also contribute to the broader goal of social justice by reducing gender inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz Myriam Reynales-Shigematsu
- Departamento de Prevención y Control de TabaquismoCentro de Investigación en Salud PoblacionalInstituto Nacional de Salud PúblicaMéxicoDepartamento de Prevención y Control de Tabaquismo, Centro de Investigación en Salud Poblacional, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, México.
| | - Belén Sáenz-de-Miera
- Departamento de EconomíaUniversidad Autónoma de Baja California SurMéxicoDepartamento de Economía, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur, México.
| | - Blanca Llorente
- Fundación AnáasBogotáColombiaFundación Anáas, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Norman Maldonado
- Centro de Estudios en Protección Social y Economía de la SaludUniversidad IcesiCaliColombiaCentro de Estudios en Protección Social y Economía de la Salud, Universidad Icesi, Cali, Colombia.
| | - Geordan Shanon
- Centre for Gender and Global HealthUniversity CollegeLondresInglaterraCentre for Gender and Global Health, University College, Londres, Inglaterra.
| | - Prabhat Jha
- Centre for Global Health ResearchUnity Health TorontoUniversity of TorontoCanadáCentre for Global Health Research, Unity Health Toronto, University of Toronto, Canadá.
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12
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Sóñora G, Reynales-Shigematsu LM, Barnoya J, Llorente B, Szklo AS, Thrasher JF. Achievements, challenges, priorities and needs to address the current tobacco epidemic in Latin America. Tob Control 2022; 31:138-141. [PMID: 35241577 PMCID: PMC8908794 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-057007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Most Latin American countries have signed and ratified the FCTC, although implementation has been uneven. Countries across the region were relatively quick to adopt mandatory smoke-free workplace policies, but regional progress in other areas has been slower. In taxation, for example, Uruguay and Brazil have made considerable progress while Paraguay and Bolivia have relatively weak policies. More recently, the region is grappling with challenges regulating novel tobacco and nicotine products. Market share for flavor capsule cigarettes in Latin America is the highest in the world; electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products are, for the most part, dissimilarly regulated; and uptake of these emerging products by adolescents and young adults is on the rise. In examining the needs and challenges in the region, we conclude that the adoption of a strong regulatory framework based on the FCTC and its Protocols is needed to accelerate a positive public health impact. In particular, countries in the region need more consistent progress in implementing FCTC provisions while strengthening regulation of flavored tobacco products, electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Failing to do so threatens to undermine the progress Latin America has made in tobacco use prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Sóñora
- Tobacco Control, International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Paris, France
| | - Luz Myriam Reynales-Shigematsu
- Departamento de Investigación sobre Tabaco, Centro de Investigación en Salud Poblacional, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Joaquin Barnoya
- Departamento de Investigacion, Unidad de Cirugia Cardiovascular, Guatemala, Guatemala
| | | | - André Salem Szklo
- Population Research Unit, Instituto Nacional de Câncer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - James F Thrasher
- Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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13
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Saenz-de-Miera B, Wu DC, Essue BM, Maldonado N, Jha P, Reynales-Shigematsu LM. The distributional effects of tobacco tax increases across regions in Mexico: an extended cost-effectiveness analysis. Int J Equity Health 2022; 21:8. [PMID: 35057813 PMCID: PMC8772114 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-021-01603-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have shown the beneficial effects of tobacco fiscal policy, but distributional effects have been less examined, especially at the subnational level. The objective of this study is to analyse the distributional effects of a one-peso tobacco tax increase (roughly equivalent to tripling the current excise tax) on health, poverty, and financial outcomes at the subnational level in Mexico. METHODS We employ an extended cost-effectiveness analysis that estimates life-years gained, smoking attributable deaths averted, treatment costs averted, number of persons avoiding poverty and catastrophic health expenditures, and additional tax revenues by income group across five regions. RESULTS With the one-peso tax increase (or 44% price increase), about 1.5 million smokers would quit smoking across the five regions, resulting in nearly 630 thousand premature deaths averted and 12.6 million life years gained. The bottom income quintile would gain three times more life years gains than the top quintile (ratio 3:1), and the largest gain for the most deprived would occur in the South (ratio 19:1), the region with the highest poverty incidence. Costs averted and additional tax revenues would reach 44.6 and 16.2 billion pesos, respectively. Moreover, 251 thousand individuals would avoid falling into poverty, including 53.2 in the lowest income quintile, and 563.9 thousand would avoid catastrophic health expenditures. Overall, the bottom income group would obtain 26% of the life years gained and 24% of the cost averted, while only paying 3% of the additional tax revenue. CONCLUSIONS The most significant gains from a substantial cigarette price increase would be for the poorest 20%, especially in the South, the most impoverished region of Mexico. Therefore, tobacco taxes are an opportunity for governments to advance in equity and towards the achievement of sustainable development goals on non-communicable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belen Saenz-de-Miera
- Department of Economics, Universidad Autonoma de Baja California Sur, Carretera al Sur Km 5.5, 23080, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
| | - Daphne C Wu
- Centre for Global Health Research, Unity Health Toronto, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Beverly M Essue
- Centre for Global Health Research, Unity Health Toronto, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Prabhat Jha
- Centre for Global Health Research, Unity Health Toronto, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Rodríguez-Bolaños R, Arillo-Santillán E, Guzmán-Rodríguez C, Barrientos-Gutiérrez I, Gallegos-Carrillo K, Titus A, Cruz-Jiménez L, Thrasher JF. Similarities and Differences in Substance Use Patterns Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Heterosexual Mexican Adult Smokers. LGBT Health 2021; 8:545-553. [DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2020.0457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rosibel Rodríguez-Bolaños
- Tobacco Research Department, Population Health Research Center, Mexican National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Edna Arillo-Santillán
- Tobacco Research Department, Population Health Research Center, Mexican National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | | | - Inti Barrientos-Gutiérrez
- Center for Evaluation and Survey Research, Mexican National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Katia Gallegos-Carrillo
- Epidemiology and Health Services Research Unit, Mexican Institute of Social Security, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Andrea Titus
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lizeth Cruz-Jiménez
- Center for Evaluation and Survey Research, Mexican National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - James F. Thrasher
- Tobacco Research Department, Population Health Research Center, Mexican National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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Barrientos-Gutierrez I, Islam F, Cho YJ, Salloum RG, Louviere J, Arillo-Santillán E, Reynales-Shigematsu LM, Barnoya J, Saenz de Miera Juarez B, Hardin J, Thrasher JF. Assessing cigarette packaging and labelling policy effects on early adolescents: results from a discrete choice experiment. Tob Control 2020; 30:tobaccocontrol-2019-055463. [PMID: 32665358 PMCID: PMC7855531 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2019-055463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cigarette packaging is a primary channel for tobacco advertising, particularly in countries where traditional channels are restricted. The current study evaluated the independent and interactive effects of cigarette packaging and health warning label (HWL) characteristics on perceived appeal of cigarette brands for early adolescents in Mexico. METHODS A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was conducted with early adolescents, aged 12-14 years (n=4251). The DCE involved a 3×25 design with six attributes: brand (Marlboro, Pall Mall, Camel), tobacco flavour (regular, menthol), flavour capsule (none, 1 or 2 capsules), presence of descriptive terms, branding (vs plain packaging), HWL size (30%, 75%) and HWL content (emphysema vs mouth cancer). Participants viewed eight sets of three cigarette packs and selected a pack in each set that: (1) is most/least attractive, (2) they are most/least interested in trying or (3) is most/least harmful, with a no difference option. RESULTS Participants perceived packs as less attractive, less interesting to try and more harmful if they had plain packaging or had larger HWLs, with the effect being most pronounced when plain packaging is combined with larger HWLs. For attractiveness, plain packaging had the biggest influence on choice (43%), followed by HWL size (19%). Interest in trying was most influenced by brand name (34%), followed by plain packaging (29%). Perceived harm was most influenced by brand name (30%), followed by HWL size (29%). CONCLUSION Increasing the size of HWLs and implementing plain packaging appear to reduce the appeal of cigarettes to early adolescents. Countries should adopt these policies to minimise the impact of tobacco marketing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farahnaz Islam
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Yoo Jin Cho
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Jordan Louviere
- School of Marketing, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Edna Arillo-Santillán
- Tobacco Research Department, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | | | - Joaquin Barnoya
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Mississippi, USA
| | | | - James Hardin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - James F Thrasher
- Tobacco Research Department, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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