The Role of Industry in Addictive Behaviors: An Analysis of Commercial Determinants of Health

<title>Abstract</title> <p>The study of addictive behaviors has historically been approached from an idiographic perspective. However, in recent years, a broader approach has been promoted, integrating contextual, sociocultural, political, and commercial determinants that contribute to the development of addictions. Commercial determinants of health (CDH) refer to the practices of industries that influence patterns of health, diseases, and addiction in the population. This article aims to outline the strategies employed by industries related to addictive behaviors, such as political practices (e.g., lobbying), interference in scientific research (e.g., funding studies), language manipulation, marketing strategies, and reputation management practices (e.g., corporate social responsibility). Furthermore, several measures of control or environmental prevention are proposed, including transparency, measures to reduce availability and accessibility, product regulation, and measures to regulate marketing.</p>