A strategy released today will provide a long-term focus for tobacco control research in New Zealand, says Michele Grigg, Chair of the Tobacco Control Research Steering Group.

She says the release of the New Zealand Tobacco Control Research Strategy 2009-2012 will support the Government's efforts to reduce deaths and morbidity from tobacco use.

"The research strategy provides a longer-term vision and objectives for tobacco control research in New Zealand. It also provides practical research tools that will help to focus tobacco research on priority topics, improve access to information about existing tobacco control research, build the tobacco control research workforce and foster collaboration and cooperation in tobacco control research."

The development of the research strategy has been led by the Tobacco Control Research Steering Group, which includes representatives from the Heart Foundation, The Quit Group, Health Research Council, Action on Smoking and Health, Health Sponsorship Council, Ministry of Health, and the universities of Auckland and Otago.

"Tobacco smoking is the single largest cause of preventable morbidity and mortality in New Zealand, with approximately 5000 tobacco-related deaths each year. Smoking prevalence in New Zealand is decreasing, but not fast enough," Michele Grigg says.

"Research plays a vital role in increasing knowledge and understanding of the hazards of tobacco use and the most effective ways of preventing people from starting to smoke and helping smokers to quit.

"This research strategy will contribute to achieving the tobacco control community's vision of a tobacco free New Zealand by 2020."

The strategy identifies criteria for prioritising tobacco control research and research priorities. It emphasises the importance of ensuring that tobacco control research supports tobacco control for Maori and Pacific peoples. It also highlights the importance of developing research capacity and capability among Maori, Pacific and young researchers.

The New Zealand Tobacco Control Research Strategy 2009-2012 is intended for use by organisations and individuals working in tobacco control and related fields. Copies are available from: