The US government has influenced public policy on smoking for decades. How did changes in public policy affect smoking? (1 point) Responses People must now be at least 19 years old to purchase cigarettes. People must now be at least 19 years old to purchase cigarettes. The dangers of smoking are well known by most people. The dangers of smoking are well known by most people. There is no longer any risk of illnesses from second-hand smoke. There is no longer any risk of illnesses from second-hand smoke. Tobacco products are not allowed to be sold in grocery stores.
Tobacco products are not allowed to be sold in grocery stores.
The dangers of smoking are well known by most people.
To understand how changes in public policy have affected smoking, we need to analyze the given responses:
1. People must now be at least 19 years old to purchase cigarettes.
This policy aims to restrict access to tobacco products for individuals below a certain age. By increasing the minimum age for cigarette purchases, the government intends to reduce smoking initiation among younger individuals and subsequently lower overall smoking rates. This policy is founded on the belief that delaying access to cigarettes can diminish the likelihood of long-term tobacco use.
2. The dangers of smoking are well known by most people.
The increased awareness of the dangers associated with smoking is not necessarily a direct result of public policy. However, public health campaigns and educational initiatives supported by the government have played a significant role in disseminating information about the harmful effects of smoking. These efforts aim to educate the public and increase knowledge about smoking-related health risks, with the hope of discouraging tobacco use.
3. There is no longer any risk of illnesses from second-hand smoke.
This statement is inaccurate. Second-hand smoke, also known as passive smoking, refers to the inhalation of tobacco smoke by non-smokers in proximity to active smokers. The risks and health issues associated with second-hand smoke exposure are well-documented, including increased chances of respiratory problems, heart disease, and certain types of cancers. Public policy efforts have focused on implementing regulations to protect non-smokers from second-hand smoke, such as restricting smoking in public places or establishing smoke-free environments.
4. Tobacco products are not allowed to be sold in grocery stores.
This indicates a restriction on the sale of tobacco products specifically in grocery stores. Banning the sale of tobacco in grocery stores aims to reduce the availability and visibility of cigarettes, making it less convenient for individuals to purchase tobacco products. It may also limit the exposure of younger individuals to tobacco marketing, as grocery stores are commonly visited by families. This policy can contribute to lower smoking rates by making it more challenging for individuals to access cigarettes and potentially encouraging them to quit or not start smoking in the first place.
In conclusion, changes in public policy regarding smoking have introduced various measures aimed at reducing smoking rates, protecting non-smokers, and increasing awareness of the health risks associated with tobacco use. These policies target factors such as age restrictions on purchasing cigarettes, public education campaigns, regulations on second-hand smoke, and restrictions on tobacco sales in certain retail settings. The overall effect of these policies can be evaluated by analyzing smoking prevalence rates and public health outcomes over time.