North Carolina tobacco-free colleges: Results of a 2yr statewide initiative to address tobacco use among 18-24 year olds

Statewide efforts to address tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke have previously been focused on youth ages 12-17 and older adults, creating a significant gap in resources available to young adults. Recent data show that approximately 30% of 18-24 year olds smoke, representing the only group in which smoking rates have risen in the last decade. With over 300,000 young adults enrolled in colleges and universities across North Carolina, the college campus provides a unique opportunity for policy interventions targeted to this age group. December 31st, 2007 marked the conclusion of a two year effort, funded by the NC Health and Wellness Trust Fund Commission, to reduce the ill effects of tobacco on the college aged population. The $1.6 million provided in grants to 20 organizations across North Carolina has fostered policy change at 25 colleges and universities including 12, 100% Tobacco Free Policies and 2 comprehensive tobacco free policies. This presentation describes the results from an innovative statewide tobacco prevention and cessation initiative including the methodology for advancing policy change, promoting the NC Quitline, and encouraging policy implementation & compliance on approximately 50 campuses. Specifically, the presentation will address the technical assistance provided and the legislative changes that have facilitated the passage of tobacco free policies. Key components of the initiative include the use of evaluative tools to track the progress of grantees, campus site visits and trainings, as well as networking meetings and web-based needs assessments. Barriers to policy change on campuses will also be discussed.