Our Homes, Our Health: Strategies, Insight, and Resources to Support Smoke-Free Multiunit Housing

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Equity
• Tobacco Control

Background:

• Tobacco use is a leading preventable cause of death and disease in the U.S.
• Significant health disparities exist in tobacco-related illness and mortality.
• Reducing tobacco use and exposure in at-risk populations is a public health priority.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and implement smoke-free policy in subsidized public housing in El Paso, Texas.
• To promote health equity by reducing tobacco-related disparities.
• To share lessons learned and resources for advocating smoke-free housing.

Main Methods:

• Stakeholder collaboration including housing authority, health foundation, public health department, and university.
• Community-engaged process acknowledging resident rights and challenges.
• Focus on policy implementation and support for cessation.

Main Results:

• Successful exploration and implementation of smoke-free policy in subsidized public housing.
• Acknowledged resident rights to clean air and provided support for smokers.
• Identified key lessons learned for future policy advocacy.

Conclusions:

• Smoke-free housing policies are crucial for promoting health equity.
• Community engagement and support are vital for successful policy implementation.
• Resources are available for communities advocating for smoke-free housing.