Tobacco point-of-sale influence on U.S. adult smokers

Introduction. Prior research has shown that tobacco companies target point-of-sale (POS) marketing to low-income communities. This research assessed the association between demographic characteristics and venue type with purchasing tobacco products in response to marketing. Methods. Using Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study Wave 1 Adult data, this analysis compared promotion awareness and purchase influence among current smokers. Results. Tobacco promotions were more likely to be noticed at convenience stores, gas stations, or tobacco stores than at other outlets. Smokers who bought their cigarettes at these outlets were more likely to purchase a brand other than their usual brand because of marketing. Smokers below the poverty level had greater odds than others to have noticed tobacco ads and to indicate purchase influence. Conclusions. Point-of-sale marketing is effective in garnering the attention of low-income populations and influencing their tobacco purchases. Enforcing retailers’ adherence to regulations is vital.