RTI uses cookies to offer you the best experience online. By clicking “accept” on this website, you opt in and you agree to the use of cookies. If you would like to know more about how RTI uses cookies and how to manage them please view our Privacy Policy here. You can “opt out” or change your mind by visiting: http://optout.aboutads.info/. Click “accept” to agree.
Have efforts to reduce smoking really contributed to the obesity epidemic?
Nonnemaker, J., Finkelstein, E., Engelen, M., Hoerger, T., & Farrelly, M. (2009). Have efforts to reduce smoking really contributed to the obesity epidemic?Economic Inquiry, 47(2), 366-376. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1465-7295.2008.00147.x
Two of the most notable trends in public health over the past 30 yr are the reductions in smoking rates and the rapid rise in obesity rates. Several studies have investigated the relationship between these trends but have drawn different conclusions. In this article, we revisit this issue, attempting to clarify the prior discrepant results. Overall, we find no support for the claim that rising cigarette taxes have significantly contributed to rising obesity rates. Instead, we find only a moderately sized effect among former smokers. (JEL I12)