The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: Three states have developed collaborative opportunities working across divisions within their State Departments of Health to more efficiently and effectively reach and intervene with tobacco users with chronic diseases. In California two million persons live with diabetes. They smoke at rates similar to the general population. In Oregon, 9% of the population have asthma and surprisingly, they smoke at higher rates than the general population. Smoking increases the risk of asthma attacks and diabetes related micro and macrovasular complications.

Methods: In California, the Tobacco Control Program and Diabetes Program partner with the California Smokers Helpline on a multifaceted program to educate health care providers to proactively refer diabetic smokers to the Helpline. In Oregon, the Asthma Tobacco Integration Project to reduce smoking prevalence and secondhand smoke exposure among asthmatics is examining the data, working with healthcare organizations and providers to integrate systems changes and empowering communities to achieve smoke-free environments. The Healthy Maine Partnership Initiative includes tobacco control, cardiovascular health, physical activity and nutrition, and coordinated school health. Maine's new way of doing business together is through joint contracts, joint training and a dedicated staff person to oversee the project.

Results: States are benefiting from new coordination and integrated chronic disease programs by increasing efficiency, reaching populations with combined messages, and aligning program strategies. Dedicated staff is key to the success of these programs. Presenters will share results, challenges and lessons learned.