Anti-tobacco and Smoking Policy Statements: An Inventory of Major Health Profession Associations in the United States

Objective: This study inventoried anti-tobacco and smoking policy or position statements of major health profession associations in the United States for content and quality.

Methods: Seventeen national health profession associations were selected, including medicine, nursing, mental health, physical therapy, chiropractic, podiatry, dentistry, vision care, public health, and others. The association websites were searched for policy/position statements that included “smoking” or “tobacco.” After initial screening, policies were reviewed and data entered into a spreadsheet. Statements were evaluated for quality including: importance of the problem, evidence provided, and actionable/feasible strategy. Content was inventoried for major themes.

Results: Of the 17 associations, 14 had publically available statements on tobacco and/or smoking.  There was a wide range in policy quality and contents. A majority of policies did not include clear problem statements, evidence, or actionable steps. The majority of the policies mentioned: health hazards, cessation programs, concern for children/minors, and forbade use in association building or events. A minority of associations had policies that included: concern for second hand smoke, special populations in addition to children, promoted warning labels, suggested community involvement, mention e-cigarettes, vapor producers, or other smoking devices. Just over half recommended providers not use or encourage patients not to use tobacco or smoke.

Conclusion: Most of the major US health professions associations have publically available anti-tobacco/smoking policies. Some organizations have detailed policies, but there was wide variety of content. Few policy statements met high quality criteria.  Regular review and revision of policies may help to address tobacco abuse and addiction.