Question

Use the ecological model (see Chapter 14 pg. 210) to design a community program to discourage smoking among teenagers. (1 post and respond to 2 classmates) 30

Answer 1

We can use various approaches, laws, and programs to discourage smoking among teenagers.

POLICY LEVEL APPROACHES

COMMUNITY LEVEL APPROACHES

INDIVIDUAL LEVEL APPROACHES

POLICY LEVEL APPROACHES

• INCREASED TAXATION

The increase in tobacco price not only result in decreased consumption but also aids in preventing the initiation of tobacco among teenagers.

• PROTECTION FROM SECOND-HAND SMOKE

Smoking free restriction laws also aid in protecting teenagers and children by preventing the initiation of smoking.

• EFFECTIVE HEALTH WARNINGS

Health warning on tobacco products proved an important factor for tobacco control like:

“Think twice before starting smoking”

“Smoking is injurious to health”

• PROHIBITING TOBACCO ADVERTISING PROMOTIONS AND SPONSORSHIPS (TAPS)

This is also a very helpful tool in the prevention and initiation of smoking among teenagers.

• RESTRICTING ACCESS TO MINORS

This will lead to a decrease in the total tobacco sale outlets resulting in a decrease in smoking among children and adults.

COMMUNITY LEVEL APPROACHES

• SCHOOL-BASED HEALTH PROGRAMS

These programs provide an opportunity to prevent tobacco use initiation and helping people to avoid difficulties that can arise due to withdrawal symptoms.

School program like mobilizing youth against tobacco-related initiatives (MYTRI) shows highly effective against tobacco control.

• YOUTH ADVOCACY AND EMPOWERMENT

Youth advocacy platforms like Global Youth Action on Tobacco(GYAT), Youth For Health(Y4H) shows markedly effect on tobacco initiation and control among teenagers.

• MASS MEDIA CAMPAIGNS

These campaigns are specially targeted the uneducated youth to control the use of tobacco.

• TOBACCO FREE HOMES AND COMMUNITIES

Families and communities play a very important in initiation and prevention of tobacco use by teenagers.

INDIVIDUAL LEVEL APPROACHES

• SET A GOOD EXAMPLE

Don’t smoke in front of your teens and don’t leave smoking materials around your home.

• PROMOTING CESSATION
• BRIEF ADVICE TO QUIT
• NICOTINE REPLACEMENT THERAPY
• PHARMACOLOGICAL THERAPY