A value-based approach to smoking prevention with immigrants from Latin America: Program evaluation

The article describes the findings of outcome and process evaluations of a value-based approach to smoking prevention. The program was conducted with a community of immigrants from Latin America living in Canada. The approach is based on participatory community planning, sensitivity to cultural diversity, and on a comprehensive philosophy of health. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used to assess outcomes and processes. Quantitative measures indicate that when compared to a control group, program children, ages 8 to 14, engaged in more community activism and showed a decrease in intentions to smoke; however, no difference was found in knowledge regarding tobacco use. The qualitative evaluation indicated that parents, children, and staff were highly satisfied with the impact of the program as well as with the processes employed to deliver it. Implications for improving the program and a value-based model for program development and evaluation are discussed.