The study provides the first large-scale direct evidence on the relationship of smoking to mortality in Australia. The population examined displays quantitatively many of the characteristics of a mature epidemic of smoking in the Western context, namely a relatively low prevalence of current smoking; similar prevalence of current smoking in men and women; long durations and stable intensities of smoking among current smokers; young and stable age at commencing smoking; a high prevalence of past smoking; and stable RRs of smoking-related mortality in successive birth cohorts [26]. Consistent RRs among successive birth cohorts were observed although the tar content in cigarettes in Australia has fallen over the last four decades [9]. The findings also demonstrate the continuing harms of smoking, despite highly successful tobacco control measures, and the need for continuing attention and control. The introduction of “plain packaging” for cigarettes in Australia in 2012 is an example of the continuing efforts required.
