Tobacco Town: Computational Modeling of Policy Options to Reduce Tobacco Retailer Density

Authored by Todd Combs, Ross A Hammond, Matt Kasman, Douglas A Luke, Amy Sorg, Austen Mack-Crane, Kurt M Ribisl, Lisa Henriksen

Date Published: 2017

DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2017.303685

Sponsors: United States National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Platforms: Repast Java

Model Documentation: Other Narrative

Model Code URLs: Model code not found

Abstract

Objectives. To identify the behavioral mechanisms and effects of tobacco control policies designed to reduce tobacco retailer density. Methods. We developed the Tobacco Town agent-based simulation model to examine 4 types of retailer reduction policies: (1) random retailer reduction, (2) restriction by type of retailer, (3) limiting proximity of retailers to schools, and (4) limiting proximity of retailers to each other. The model examined the effects of these policies alone and in combination across 4 different types of towns, defined by 2 levels of population density (urban vs suburban) and 2 levels of income (higher vs lower). Results. Model results indicated that reduction of retailer density has the potential to decrease accessibility of tobacco products by driving up search and purchase costs. Policy effects varied by town type: proximity policies worked better in dense, urban towns whereas retailer type and random retailer reduction worked better in less-dense, suburban settings. Conclusions. Comprehensive retailer density reduction policies have excellent potential to reduce the public health burden of tobacco use in communities.

Tags

Agent-based models Dynamics Schools smoking context Science United-states Public-health Prevention Outlet density