A evaluation of tobacco control policy in Hong Kong

Public Policy and Management, the Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China

^* Corresponding author: vincentchung24@foxmail.com

Abstract

Hong Kong has implemented multiple smoking control policies over the past 40 years, including legislation, taxation, education, and smoking cessation services. This review analyzes data on smoking rates, daily cigarette consumption, smoking related diseases, and law enforcement, summarizes the policy tools used by the Hong Kong government in tobacco control, to evaluates and analyzes the effectiveness of these policies. After collection and analysis, it was found that people's smoking rate has decreased from 23% in 1982 to 10% in 2021, and daily smoking volume is also decreasing over time. In particular, the new smoking ban implemented in 2007 has led to a general decline in the incidence rate and mortality of lung cancer. During this period, the government is also using different means, such as continuously expanding smoking prohibition zones and strengthening law enforcement, to promote and educate the public on the importance of smoking prohibition. Overall, over the past 40 years, Hong Kong has made positive progress in reducing tobacco use and smoking hazards through comprehensive and gradual policies aimed at maintaining and strengthening tobacco control, promoting public health.