Evaluating community-based programs for eliminating secondhand smoke using evidence-based research for best practices

Extensive research has been conducted on the hazardous effects of tobacco use, and more recently attention has focused on the harmful effects of secondhand smoke (SHS). A growing body of evidence-based research supports best practices for eliminating SHS. This article describes the evaluation and outcomes of a community-based coalition in the midwest that used best practices to educate and change public attitudes on SHS, and thereby promote social policy change for tobacco-free environments. The evaluation model incorporated evidence-based indicators as measures for coalition goal achievement and found the best practices program to be effective for eliminating SHS exposure.