New approaches to smoking prevention in the north

Morbidity and mortality rates of noncommunicable diseases (NCD) are very high in Siberia. The prevalence of NCD risk factors is also very high, smoking being one of the most widespread risk factors. Prevention and cessation of smoking may improve the health of the population. Within the framework of the WHO MONICA (Monitoring Cardiovascular Diseases) project, we have conducted three population surveys in Novosibirsk within a 10-year period (1984-1995) to show trends of cardiovascular diseases and their risk factors. We also conducted similar surveys in some Siberian regions. Economic crisis and social stress greatly affect the health of the population, and new methods and approaches to disease prevention are needed. As participants in the WHO CINDI program (Countrywide Integrated Program for Disease Prevention), we started our work to reduce and control the main NCD risk factors. Smoking being widespread in Siberia, we started an anti-smoking campaign in Novosibirsk as participants in the international "QUIT & WIN" campaign in 1994. In 1995 we arranged a similar contest at the local level in the city; and now in May 1996 we are again taking part in the QUIT & WIN campaign.