Designing and implementing a non-smoking policy at the University of Navarre, Spain

• Main Author: Anso, Maria Jose Duaso
• Published: Durham University 2004
• Subjects: 361
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.552903

The aim of this study was to design and implement a non-smoking policy at a university and to recommend health promotion interventions based on die transtheoretical model and employee interest. A combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods was used. A questionnaire was sent to a random sample of employees (N=641) to assess smoking habits, nicotine dependency, intention to quit, perception of norms, daily exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, and attitudes towards a non-smoking policy. To complement the survey data gathered, measurements of particulate matters and benzene were taken in several locations at the university. In addition, eight focus group discussions took place with a purposive sample of employees seeking positive ideas for implementing a successful policy, and reasons for their objection. A response rate of 70.4% was obtained from 578 eligible employees. Survey results suggest that 25.7% university employees smoke. The majority of respondents supported a restrictive non-smoking policy (81.7%). Acceptance among active smokers was significantly lower (59.2% vs 89.3%). Smoking prohibition with the provision of smoking areas was the most favoured option (46.9%). Lack of compliance and the presence of persistent smokers were seen as potential obstacles for the implementation of a non-smoking policy. Most of the smokers (73.6%) presented a low level of nicotine dependence. The application of the transtheoretical model of change to the sample under study suggests that the majority (59.6%) of smokers at the university were not considering quitting in the near future. Interest in availability of smoking cessation activities differed by stage of change. Based on this research a non-smoking policy has been implemented at the University of Navarre. This project could result in an improvement on die future health of 1,900 university employees and 12,000 students. There is great potential for learning from this experience and for applying it to other settings where tobacco control efforts are needed.