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The Long-Term Impact of in Utero Cigarette Taxes on Adult Prenatal Smoking

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  • Lauren Hoehn-Velasco
  • Michael F. Pesko
  • Serena Phillips

Abstract

This study examines the long-term link between in utero cigarette taxes and adult prenatal smoking. We use US birth certificate records to demonstrate that exposure to higher in utero cigarette taxes (over 1965–2001) reduces later-life adult pre-pregnancy and prenatal smoking. We also show that higher in utero cigarette taxes have long-lasting effects on adult health and intergenerational consequences for infant health. Finally, we demonstrate that larger in utero tax responsiveness correlates with smaller contemporary cigarette tax responsiveness, suggesting that higher in utero taxes may alter the composition of remaining smokers and contribute to reductions in contemporary cigarette tax responsiveness.

Suggested Citation

  • Lauren Hoehn-Velasco & Michael F. Pesko & Serena Phillips, 2023. "The Long-Term Impact of in Utero Cigarette Taxes on Adult Prenatal Smoking," American Journal of Health Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 9(4), pages 605-648.
    • Handle: RePEc:ucp:amjhec:doi:10.1086/723825
    DOI: 10.1086/723825
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    JEL classification:

    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health
    • H71 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - State and Local Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue
    • H75 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - State and Local Government: Health, Education, and Welfare

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