Close X
Thursday, November 28, 2024
ADVT 
Health

Rising Cigarette Taxes Are Tied To Declines In US Infant Deaths, 11 Years Of Data Suggest

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 01 Dec, 2015 10:49 AM
    CHICAGO — When it costs more to smoke, fewer babies die, according to a new study that links rising cigarette taxes with declines in infant mortality, especially among blacks.
     
    With nearly 4 million annual births nationwide, the results suggest that a $1 increase in cigarette taxes would be expected to lead to 750 fewer infant deaths each year, the researchers said.
     
    Smoking during pregnancy can lead to complications including sometimes dangerous premature births and sudden infant death syndrome. U.S. smoking rates declined during years examined in the study — 1999 to 2010. The research, paid for by the National Institutes of Health, was published online Tuesday in the journal Pediatrics.
     
    THE STUDY
     
    Cigarettes are subject to state and federal excise taxes. Dr. Stephen Patrick of Vanderbilt University and colleagues examined data on changes in those taxes and cigarette prices from every state over 11 years. They also analyzed federal data on infant mortality in each state.
     
    Taxes per cigarette pack increased from 84 cents to $2.37 on average, adjusted for inflation. Infant mortality per 1,000 births decreased from about 7 deaths to 6 deaths on average. Among blacks, deaths declined from about 14 to 11 per 1,000 births.
     
    The researchers considered factors other than smoking that influence infant mortality, including family income and education, but still found a link with rising taxes.
     
     
    THE CONTEXT
     
    Almost 11 per cent of U.S. women smoke during pregnancy, federal data show. Previous studies have linked higher cigarette taxes with declines in smoking during pregnancy and with better newborn health. The researchers say their work is the first examining these taxes and U.S. infant mortality rates.
     
    Raising tobacco taxes is among strategies the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention supports to reduce smoking. A U.S. Surgeon General report last year said reducing smoking among pregnant women and women of reproductive age "remains a critical component of public health efforts to improve maternal and child health."
     
    LIMITATIONS
     
    The researchers say the taxes could have negative consequences for pregnant smokers who don't quit and can't afford to buy necessities because of high cigarette prices — a possibility the study didn't examine. The study lacked information on all variables that could affect infant mortality. Still, they say their study adds to evidence for policymakers to consider in seeking ways to reduce infant deaths.

    MORE Health ARTICLES

    Sex Does Not Hurt Your Back: Study

    Sex Does Not Hurt Your Back: Study
    Could sexual activity trigger lower back pain? No, says a new study that lays the greater blame on heavy lifting.

    Sex Does Not Hurt Your Back: Study

    Stressed, Depressed Women Live Shorter

    Stressed, Depressed Women Live Shorter
    Providing a new possible link between the mind and body, a study says women under chronic stress have significantly lower levels of klotho, a hormone that regulates aging and enhances cognition.

    Stressed, Depressed Women Live Shorter

    Eat Nuts To Cut Cancer Risk: Study

    Eat Nuts To Cut Cancer Risk: Study
    Consuming nuts is associated with a decreased risk of certain types of cancer, but not Type-2 diabetes, says new study.

    Eat Nuts To Cut Cancer Risk: Study

    Canola Oil May Be Key To Healthy Lifestyle, Here Are The Top 5 Benefits

    Canola Oil May Be Key To Healthy Lifestyle, Here Are The Top 5 Benefits
    When you decide to stay fit and adopt a healthy diet, check out the cooking oil you're using as it might hold the key to a healthy lifestyle. 

    Canola Oil May Be Key To Healthy Lifestyle, Here Are The Top 5 Benefits

    Weight-loss Surgery Boosts Sex Life Too

    Weight-loss Surgery Boosts Sex Life Too
    The popular weight-loss surgery not only makes you look fit and healthy but can also bring spark back in your bedroom life, reveals a study.

    Weight-loss Surgery Boosts Sex Life Too

    How To Combat Your Hangover The Natural Way

    How To Combat Your Hangover The Natural Way
    Eat ginger and stay hydrated to get over your hangover naturally. Nutritionist Jacquie Newson doles out tips on how one can remain fine after a few drinks.

    How To Combat Your Hangover The Natural Way