Implementing Prevention against Tobacco Dependence (PAD) “Toward the Tobacco-Free Schools, Neighborhoods, and Cities”: Study Protocol

Background: although tobacco consumption in iran has decreased in recent years, in 2010, theexposure to cigarette smoke was the fifth leading risk factor for death in iran. this article ispresenting the protocol for the prevention against tobacco dependence (pad) project, an initiativeplanned and implemented by the iranian anti-tobacco association (iata) of iran in the city ofvaramin.study design: a prospective cohort study.methods: this project is carried out based on a participatory community-oriented approach and anaction research method. it includes four inter-related, prospective studies phases; pilot, tobaccofree school (tfs), tobacco-free neighborhood (tfn), and tobacco-free city (tfs). the measuring tools for each phase were designed primarily using cdc and who guidelines and preliminary details were identified. each phase is a combination of different methods (including systematic observation, questionnaire, heuristic interview, and structured interview). the studies will examine twelve goals and meet 9 project objectives in a comprehensive evaluation of ongoing progress with tfs, tfn, and tfc.discussion: this project seeks to achieve indicators of tobacco-free schools, neighborhoods, andcities through direct and indirect education of all the target groups in the community. participationof stakeholders and supporters in problem-solving can increase the effectiveness and influence ofthe project. the outcomes of the first two phases will be expanded to the wider settings.