Learning Objectives: Describe current trends and patterns of tobacco use by students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities, based on a national study Describe key trends in tobacco control, prevention and cessation efforts at institutions of higher education, based on findings of two new surveys Compare the tobacco control situation on their own campus with that of other institutions and identify some of the steps involved in assessing tobacco prevention and cessation policies and services on their own campus.
Abstract: Tobacco use is common among U.S. college students. Effective interventions are not yet defined. This presentation will focus on policy-level approaches to reduce campus tobacco use, identifying the extent of current efforts and summarizing data on their impact on tobacco use. Dr. Rigotti will summarize trends in college tobacco use, using new data from the 2001 national Harvard College Alcohol Survey and review evidence linking campus smoking restrictions with lower rates of tobacco use by college students. Dr. Halperin will present data from a national survey of 50 state universities assessing campus smoking restrictions, sale and advertising of tobacco products, tobacco company promotions and student health service prevention and treatment programs. Ms. Zweig will report findings from a similar survey at public and private colleges in Vermont, supplemented by focus groups of students. Ms. Majchrzak will describe the findings of student focus groups and administrator interviews conducted in 11 Massachusetts public colleges. All speakers will present information on the extent of concern about tobacco use, current smoking restrictions, policy enforcement, barriers to tobacco-prevention initiatives, and resources needed to strengthen current efforts. They will also discuss challenges involved in gathering information about tobacco policies and programs at institutions of higher education. They will give participants an opportunity to compare their institutions with others, ask questions, and offer suggestions for those who wish to conduct similar studies. Participants will gain information to guide them in assessing the situation on their own campus, and in planning tobacco control policies and activities.
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