A systematic review of second-hand smoking mass media campaigns (2002-2022)

Background
This systematic review summarised the characteristics and outcomes of mass media campaigns on second-hand smoking (SHS) prevention. 
 
Methods
PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and grey literature were searched for SHS campaigns implemented between 2016-2022, using terms related to smoking, media, and behavioural outcomes. The database search identified 1,413 peer-reviewed titles, where 82 full-texts were screened, with 14 meeting the eligibility criteria. The grey literature search identified 9807 sources and 61 were included. We extracted data on the campaign characteristics, metrics, and smoking-related outcomes. 
 
Results
The various campaigns reached up to 378 million people. The reported recall rates range from 8%-76%. Of the 11 studies that reported smoking-related outcomes, 10 reported increased knowledge in understanding the SHS risks (73%-85%), 5 reported increased prevalence of smoke-free homes, and 2 reported persuading others to quit smoking among participants. A reduction in overall smoking was reported (2 studies) and in the presence of children (3 studies).
 
Conclusions
Based on limited evidence, SHS campaigns could reduce the occurrence of smoking in the home and around children. There is little evidence that quit attempts were sustained. A thorough outcome evaluation of SHS campaigns would assist policy makers to understand the full impact of these campaigns.