Becoming Smoke-free: Evaluation, Communication, and Policy---Working in Tandem

ABSTRACT: Audience: Individuals that will benefit from the information presented in this session include those working in surveillance and evaluation research (universities, health departments), policy development and community organization/service (coalitions, state and local health departments), and communications/media (coalitions, health departments, universities). Advocates of tobacco prevention and control efforts and health professionals interested in promoting abstinence and cessation will also find this session useful. Key Points: This session will demonstrate how surveillance and evaluation research, policy development, and communication can, and must, work together to bring about changes in the attitudes, and ultimately, the health of the citizens of an entire state. These keys points are based on a series of primary research studies conducted over the course of several years, which ultimately culminated in passing a statewide smoke-free workplace law. These research projects will be reviewed, and their important findings presented. Another key component of this process, grass roots policy efforts at the local level, will also be discussed. Finally, the importance of communicating research findings along with the import of those findings on public health will be presented. Educational Experience: The audience will learn these key points and how to apply them via a PowerPoint presentation and open discussion. Benefits: The audience will benefit from this session by learning how to interdependently apply key components of a successful tobacco prevention and control program. Most importantly, they will learn that a seemingly unattainable goal can, in fact, be achieved!