The Effect of Policy Interactions on Maternal Smoking Rates

While smoking remains a salient public health issue, maternal smoking is also a key reproductive health concern. Women who smoke are at a higher risk of infertility and complications during pregnancy. Despite what is known about the dangers of maternal smoking, it is still an issue for state health departments nationwide. Previous research has explored the elasticity and burden of cigarette taxation across demographic groups. However, it is unknown how cigarette taxation might actually interact with other public health efforts to generate a unique response with pregnant women. This study analyzed the interaction between changes in cigarette tax rates and health care utilization (prenatal care services) on smoking behaviors during pregnancy, among other policies of importance to maternal health.