Pharmacy promotion of tobacco use among children in Massachusetts

The role played by pharmacies in the promotion and distribution of tobacco to children was assessed in a survey of 100 pharmacies. Of the 100 surveyed, 95 sold tobacco products, 50 advertised tobacco, 42 advertised the cigarette brands that are most appealing to children, and 23 displayed the Camel cartoon advertisements that have been identified as being targeted specifically at children. Candy tobacco products were sold in 22% of the pharmacies. Of the pharmacies selling tobacco, 81% were willing to sell it to minors illegally. The five pharmacies that did not carry tobacco products were independent stores. When compared to chain pharmacies, independent pharmacies more frequently advertised tobacco (p less than 0.05) but were not more likely to sell it to children. The authors contend that pharmacists who sell tobacco violate the profession's Code of Ethics and play an important role in the promotion of tobacco use among children.