This policy brief is an innovation-in-progress. It uses a graded-entry format to present policy relevant research evidence about the effects of different policy options that could be used to address country-level health challenges. It was produced to illustrate and bring to life the challenges and opportunities in using research evidence to inform policy-making. The policy brief does not aim to provide a comprehensive overview of all of the research evidence relevant to policy-making in the area. In focusing on global research evidence about effects (both benefits and harms) and hence on studies that use research designs that are best suited to examining effects (i.e., randomized controlled trials, controlled before/after studies, and interrupted time series), it excludes other types of research evidence. This policy brief, for example, excludes global research evidence related to how and why interventions work, as well as local research evidence about the views and experiences of stakeholders, both of which can be addressed using qualitative studies. 

 Khon Kaen, Thailand; December 2006