Abstract:
This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed to explore of retailer’s behavior toward the sale of tobacco in a community near a university in the lower northern Thailand. The samples were selected by convenient sampling (n=62). Data were collected by the research assistants (Aged over 20 years old) who have been through the workshop for data collection methods including (1) Protocol of attempted to purchase cigarettes and (2) Non-participation observational with structure. The data analysis was descriptive statistic. Results showed that the most of retailers were distribution in the commercial area and the student residences. The store types were grocery (45.2%), mini-mart or convenience stores (40.3%) and Pubs / Bars (14.5%). Mostly, Retailers were failure to ask a minor for age or failure to demand a minor for ID (95.2%) and sale individual cigarette (small pack) or no pictures/text about health warnings on cigarette packages (82.3%). Approximately, 38.7% showed cigarette packages at point of sale or showed that can be visible from the over the counter or outside the store. Therefore, retailer’s behavior toward the sale of tobacco in a community near a university in the lower northern Thailand is still the challenge issue and need to resolve. This result can be used to improve strategies and to develop interventions for changing retailer’s behavior which impact directly to limit youth access to tobacco further.
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