Tobacco control in Finland
The paper describes the national tobacco control efforts in Finland during the past three decades, with emphasis on implementation of a comprehensive legislation and related health promotion activities. There has been a gradual reduction of smoking among men and a levelling off of the increase among women according to a national system to monitor the trends in smoking prevalence since 1978. In 2002 some 27 % of men and 18 % of women were daily smokers in the age group 15-64 years; this level is one of the lowest in Europe. Mortality trends due to major tobacco-related major diseases (CHD, lung cancer) have improved remarkably over time. The surveys and experience show much progress and success in restricting smoking and peoples' exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, much in accordance with the respective legislations: smokefree schools and other public places, restrictions of smoking at worksites, and smokefree areas at restaurants. The Finnish tobacco control policy has been based on evidence and research, with gradual implementation and close monitoring. The policy has been quite successful, but there are still challenges to address in the future. International development, based on the successful implementation of FCTC, will be important for Finland to achieve further progress in tobacco control.
