Tobacco prevention education based on needs determined by the general population

Abstract

Tobacco use is a growing problem in Pickens County, Georgia with approximately 27.5% of the population reporting regular use in 2011. Additionally, tobacco use is growing in the adolescent population not only in Pickens County, but also on a national level. Everyday, approximately 3,900 children try a tobacco product for the first time and approximately 1,000 become regular users. The purpose of this research study is to determine the most effective learning method for the general population and therefore, create a learning tool providing effective tobacco education. To learn population needs, a survey was distributed to a diverse population via persons who visited the local health department for various services. Education was formulated in consideration of population demographics, household statistics, and current tobacco knowledge. Additionally, the education technique was determined based on survey results provided by the population. Due to governmental restrictions, education was ultimately not presented to the general population. To determine effectiveness of the education in regards to the Pickens County population, education tools were presented to the health department staff for review and critique. Results of this study could potentially be used in the future to create effective tobacco education and health promotion to a lower income population with minimal resources.