Evaluation of a smokefree policy in subsidized multi-unit housing complexes in the tri-county area of Portland, Oregon

Background: In 2007-2008, a large property management company in the Portland Tri-County area instituted a smokefree policy. Tenants are no longer allowed to smoke in their apartments, in indoor common areas, or on the grounds. We designed an evaluation to examine policy acceptance and adherence among existing and former low-income tenants from 900 units in the 17 buildings covered by Section 8 or Section 42 Federal housing subsidies.

Methods: We are currently conducting in-person qualitative surveys with the 13 on-site building managers to gather information on their attitudes toward the policy, and on tenant policy acceptance and compliance. We will conduct mailed surveys on knowledge, attitudes and behaviors related to the smokefree policy from a random sample of approximately 650 current tenants. We will also collect qualitative information from tenants by phone who vacate their apartments after the policy was instituted to assess reasons for leaving and subsequent housing stability.

Results: Results from the manager surveys and departing tenant surveys will be compiled and reported. Results from the tenant surveys on policy acceptance and adherence will be analyzed and presented for smokers and nonsmokers separately.

Conclusion: It is important to assess early attempts at smokefree policies in multiunit housing complexes to inform subsequent attempts at this important policy change. In addition, an examination of policy acceptance and adherence in a low-income population is especially critical, as smoking prevalence in this population is about twice as high as the general population.