The prevalence of the purchase and use of contraband tobacco among smokers in Quebec, 2005-2010
The fight against the illegal tobacco trade represents a considerable challenge for tobacco control efforts. In Quebec, as in the rest of the country, the sale of contraband tobacco products limits the efficacy of taxation as a means to reduce tobacco use and restrict youths’ access to tobacco. In addition, the significant tax losses generated by the illegal tobacco product trade represent financial resources that governments would otherwise be able to invest in health services. The preparation of public policies aimed at preventing tobacco contraband requires a precise and reliable quantification of the phenomenon. This systematic review seeks to estimate the prevalence of the purchase and consumption of illegal tobacco in Quebec from 2005 to 2010 amongst smokers aged 15 or older. Relevant data was reviewed and analysed using an objective critical evaluation instrument. Twenty-seven studies were listed and examined, 18 of which demonstrated acceptable quality regarding their methodology, the interpretation of results and applicability. Available data suggests that prevalence among smokers aged 15 or over did not show a statistically significant annual variation between 2005 and 2010 in Quebec, ranging from 6% to 28%. Suggestions are proposed to improve the methodological quality of studies designed to estimate the prevalence of the purchase and consumption of contraband tobacco.