Implementation research on the tailored, multidisciplinary NCD prevention package FRESHAIR4LIFE: Targeting tobacco and air pollution exposure in mid- to late adolescents in disadvantaged populations

Background

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) are the leading cause of ill health and premature mortality. Although we know how to mitigate risk factors and prevent NCDs, we have failed to apply this knowledge, especially in disadvantaged populations. FA4LIFE aims to bridge this translational gap, and gain knowledge, resources and capacity to optimize implementation of multi-level, evidence-based tobacco and air pollution (AP) exposure prevention packages targeting adolescents in disadvantaged populations. To do so, FA4LIFE will work in five countries; Greece, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Romania and Uganda. All face a high NCD burden, but their contexts differ significantly. These differences provide opportunity to gain implementation knowledge and resources that can be extrapolated to settings worldwide. All FA4LIFE activities are supported by dual capacity building: creating youth advocacy and professional leadership.

Aims

FRESHAIR4Life (FA4Life) aims to address the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) due to tobacco use and air pollution exposure among adolescents in disadvantaged populations by gaining knowledge, resources and capacity to optimize implementation of tailored NCD prevention packages.

Project plan

In each setting:

1. Perform situational analysis (incl. affordability) and establish sustainable stakeholder engagement teams.

2. Use the Prevention palette method’ to co-create a tailored, evidence-based FA4LIFE prevention package targeting tobacco and AP exposure in mid- to late adolescents, mindful of equity

3. Implement, evaluate and iteratively refine the FA4LIFE prevention package

4. Optimize sustainable implementation and equitable impact by building dual capacity, via youth advocacy digital initiatives, community leadership schools and Teach-the-Teacher programs. A robust and innovative dissemination, exploitation and communication plan, including the FA4LIFE Case For Action, the FA4LIFE implementation toolbox, and broad youth advocacy-informed social media strategy will promote upscaling and maximize global impact on NCD burden, especially in those adolescents most at risk or in need in disadvantaged populations.

Publications and output

You may visit the project website for more information.

Principal investigators

Funding organisations

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