Ruth E. Malone, RN, PhD, Dept. of Social & Behavioral Sciences and Center for Tobacco Control Research & Education, University of California, San Francisco, Box 1390, San Francisco, CA 94143-1390, 415-476-3273, rmalone@itsa.ucsf.edu

The industry devotes considerable time and money to “issues management”: political goals (broadly defined), and social image. These issues affect the adoption and implementation of tobacco control measures. For instance, the industry uses diet and obesity issues to normalize and minimize the risks of smoking and addiction by placing them in the context of eating. As nutrition advocates use arguments and tactics developed by tobacco control, they may inadvertently undermine tobacco control efforts. The industry also engages in various strategies to manage potential public relations risks related to pesticides. The industry denies the risk, then emphasizes inconsistencies in pesticide policy or claims that other entities are responsible. Political activities supported the industry’s efforts to maintain tax-free tobacco for military personnel. The industry worked with individuals in the military command structure and “quietly” prevented the Department of Defense from changing the policy without Congressional approval. Industry image is also polished through corporate philanthropy, with serious policy implications. For example, nearly a quarter of gay and lesbian leaders surveyed reported receiving financial support from tobacco companies, and 79% did not consider tobacco a significant community issue. However, However, too-hastily confronting industry issues strategies may lead to Pyrrhic victories. A study of industry tactics on international health warning labels suggests that companies may make strategic concessions in order to appear as “good corporate citizens.” Advocates must carefully evaluate their demands and potential unintended consequences. Confronting the industry’s skills in issues management requires a sophisticated understanding of its strategies and tactics.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to
• Recognize and understand tobacco industry issue management techniques
• Strategize about how to counter tobacco industry political strategies

Keywords: Tobacco Industry, Policy/Policy Development

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.