Gender Dynamics and Smoking Prevalence in Japan

Abstract

Using recently available data spanning four decades, this paper examines the determinants of smoking prevalence in Japan. Main contributions include (i) examining differences across demographics; (ii) studying the effect of intra-household spousal economic power on smoking; and (iii) providing evidence on the efficacy of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Results show that higher cigarette prices are more effective at reducing smoking prevalence among males than females, with significant differences across age groups. Greater economic prosperity and FCTC also deter male smoking, as does a higher relative income share of the wife in the household.