Evaluating the Impact of Smoke-Free Policies in Jambi, Indonesia: A Mixed-Methods Approach.

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness of this policy and identifies socio-demographic factors influencing its acceptance and implementation.

Methods: A convergent parallel design mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. The study was conducted from January to March 2023. A total of 249 respondents including 9 policymakers and 240 public participants namely visitors to public places, workplaces, places of worship, children's play places, places of teaching and learning processes, health facilities and sports facilities. respondents were selected through purposive and accidental sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney test and Spearman test is used in this study. Qualitative data coded and thematically analyzed.

Result: The study revealed a low awareness of the smoke-free policy, with over 77.9% of respondents unaware of its existence. Despite this, more than 85% supported no-smoking signs and endorsed the policy. Education level emerged as a significant predictor of positive attitudes toward the policy (r = 0.239, p = 0.000). However, challenges in policy implementation, such as inadequate socialization, limited supervision, and budget constraints, were identified.  Conclusion: Implementation of the smoke-free area policy has not been effective. This was in accordance with the findings that there was low public awareness and education level as a predictor of positive attitudes toward the policy. The findings highlight the need for improved public health communication and enforcement strategies to enhance the effectiveness of smoke-free policies in Jambi.