Standardized Tobacco Assessment of Retail Settings (STARS) in Urban Georgia
Faculty Mentor(s) Name(s)
Dr. Damian Francis
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Conducting a Windshield Assessment is a critical component in identifying and addressing community needs around tobacco-related health outcomes. METHODS: The standardized tobacco assessment for retail settings (STARS) surveillance tool was conducted on a random sample of active tobacco retailers to evaluate both interior and exterior marketing of tobacco products in an urban setting in Georgia. Specific criteria evaluated included visibility of products, display of graphic health warnings, proximity to other non-tobacco related products, price promotions, type of products and pricing. Using Qualtrics, the 36 item STARS survey was administered. Data was exported to an Excel analysis template to produce graphs and figures. RESULTS: A total 64 (31%) out of 195 tobacco retailers ranging from convenience stores, general merchandise stores to full-service grocery stores were surveyed. 59% of retailers evaluated did not display graphic health warnings for tobacco related products. The cheapest reported cigarette cost $4.35 prior to sales tax, and $4.70 after sales tax. 81.3% have a cheaper option of cigarettes for customers to choose from. Inappropriate advertisement included advertisement of tobacco products within 3 feet of the floor and/or within 12 inches of toys, candy, gum, slushy/soda machines or ice cream. 1 in 10 retailers had tobacco products within 12 inches of toys, candy, gum, slushy/soda machines or ice cream and 14.1% had E-cigarette ads within 3 feet of the floor. Two-thirds of retailers advertise price promotions and sold cigarillos as singles for less than $1.00. Most retailers (89%) sold Menthol cigarettes of which 50% had visible price promotions inside or outside the store. CONCLUSION: The results suggest the need to address issues with access, marketing, and sale of tobacco related products. Targeted interventions aimed at compliance and education may reduce tobacco use and related health outcomes and disparities.
Start Date
27-3-2024 3:00 PM
End Date
27-3-2024 3:08 PM
Location
Atkinson 107
Standardized Tobacco Assessment of Retail Settings (STARS) in Urban Georgia
Atkinson 107
INTRODUCTION: Conducting a Windshield Assessment is a critical component in identifying and addressing community needs around tobacco-related health outcomes. METHODS: The standardized tobacco assessment for retail settings (STARS) surveillance tool was conducted on a random sample of active tobacco retailers to evaluate both interior and exterior marketing of tobacco products in an urban setting in Georgia. Specific criteria evaluated included visibility of products, display of graphic health warnings, proximity to other non-tobacco related products, price promotions, type of products and pricing. Using Qualtrics, the 36 item STARS survey was administered. Data was exported to an Excel analysis template to produce graphs and figures. RESULTS: A total 64 (31%) out of 195 tobacco retailers ranging from convenience stores, general merchandise stores to full-service grocery stores were surveyed. 59% of retailers evaluated did not display graphic health warnings for tobacco related products. The cheapest reported cigarette cost $4.35 prior to sales tax, and $4.70 after sales tax. 81.3% have a cheaper option of cigarettes for customers to choose from. Inappropriate advertisement included advertisement of tobacco products within 3 feet of the floor and/or within 12 inches of toys, candy, gum, slushy/soda machines or ice cream. 1 in 10 retailers had tobacco products within 12 inches of toys, candy, gum, slushy/soda machines or ice cream and 14.1% had E-cigarette ads within 3 feet of the floor. Two-thirds of retailers advertise price promotions and sold cigarillos as singles for less than $1.00. Most retailers (89%) sold Menthol cigarettes of which 50% had visible price promotions inside or outside the store. CONCLUSION: The results suggest the need to address issues with access, marketing, and sale of tobacco related products. Targeted interventions aimed at compliance and education may reduce tobacco use and related health outcomes and disparities.