The State of Tobacco Control in ASEAN: Framing the Implementation of the FCTC from a Health Systems Perspective

Abstract

Using a tobacco control framework that combines demand-reduction and selected supply-reduction measures according to a health system's building blocks, this article aims to assess the state of Framework Convention on Tobacco Control implementation in ASEAN countries from a health systems perspective. Results show that more ASEAN member states are showing leadership in adopting effective policies in the MPOWER suite of interventions such as raising taxes on tobacco, establishing smoke-free areas and implementing graphic health warnings. However, effective enforcement of these policies is hampered by the lack of policies to protect public health measures from tobacco industry interference. ASEAN faces three challenges to control and reduce tobacco use: tackling the increasing burden of disease from tobacco use, tobacco industry interference and the need for better governance based on stronger political will and commitment. ASEAN member states need to further invest and innovate on tobacco control and promoting healthy lifestyles in order to achieve the SDG target on tobacco control.

Keywords: tobacco control, ASEAN, FCTC, Southeast Asia, health policy, health system