[Acceptability of tobacco control measures among Spanish adults]

To identify the characteristics of the Spanish population that influence the acceptability of different tobacco control measures that could be implemented in Spain to reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke, as well as the differences in the acceptability of such measures across the country's autonomous communities.

Cross-sectional study in a representative sample of the Spanish adult population (n=2103). The population characteristics associated with acceptance of smoking bans in certain spaces, the implementation of plain packaging, the increase in the minimum age for tobacco sales to 21, and the limitation of tobacco sales outlets were identified by adjusting logistic regression models. Prevalence of acceptance was estimated in the different autonomous communities.

The variables that most strongly influenced the acceptance of any of the tobacco control measures evaluated are being a non-smoker and living with a partner. The acceptability of the measures varies across autonomous communities. The most widely accepted measure was the ban on smoking in private cars in the presence of minors or pregnant women. In all autonomous communities, men showed greater disagreement with implementing plain packaging, increasing the minimum legal age for tobacco sales, or limiting the number of tobacco sales outlets.

It is necessary to strengthen information on specific measures that can enhance tobacco control, such as plain packaging, in order to increase their social acceptability and facilitate their implementation and compliance.