Status of the implementation of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in the region of the Americas

Objective: To assess the status of implementing the following Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FTCT) mandates in the Americas: (1) Price and tax measures, (2) Protection from exposure to tobacco smoke, (3) Packaging and labeling, (4) Advertising, promotion and sponsorship, (5) Cessation, (6) Surveillance.

Methods: Progress is assessed based on the data published in the WHO Reports on the Global Tobacco Epidemic. The WHO Reports are based on national legislation collected at country level, analyzed by WHO and validated by corresponding national authorities.

Results: The essay concludes that FCTC implementation has been uneven throughout the Americas.

Conclusions: A very small group of countries have been able to implement effective policies for at least two out of the six measures assessed, but the vast majority of countries, while having some existing legislation, have yet to meet the requirements laid out in the FCTC or be consistent with international best practices.