Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #105346

Tracy M. Clopton, M S W, Tobacco Risk Reduction Program, Ohio Department of Health, 246 North High Street, 8th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215, 614-466-2273, tclopton@odh.ohio.gov

Using the Diffusion of Innovations Theory, an Ohio statewide restaurant campaign was developed to: a) help local communities begin assessing public opinions about smoke free restaurants, b) foster collaborative relationships between businesses and health advocates, and c) promote unity among local coalitions in preparation for future smoke free policy advocacy. Local restaurant managers were encouraged to convert to smoke free based upon patron opinion assessments. Local participant agencies provided feedback to determine if the statewide restaurant campaign was effectively implemented. Restaurant managers were assessed to determine their likelihood of converting to smoke free and their receptiveness to the campaign. Statewide assessment results showed that patrons were glad to see the campaign, and if their restaurant went smoke free everyday, most would either return more often or be glad to see the restaurant convert. Overall, managers rated the campaign as successful and health advocates had some influence on their decision to participate. Most local participant agencies gave a favorable rating of the support given by the state tobacco program.

At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to:

1. Define the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and describe how the components were incorporated into a statewide smoke free restaurant campaign.

2. Identify the outcomes and lessons learned from a multi-component assessment of a statewide health promotion campaign.

3. Apply this statewide model to assist local communities with little experience in collaborating to promote a public health issue.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to

• Define the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and describe how the components were incorporated into a statewide smoke free restaurant campaign.
• Identify the outcomes and lessons learned from a multi-component assessment of a statewide health promotion campaign.
• Apply this statewide model to assist local communities with little experience in collaborating to promote a public health issue.

Keywords: Advocacy, Coalition

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Handout (.ppt format, .0 kb)