Internet-Based Tobacco Control Network - Czech Republic

When traditional media (TV, newspapers etc.) refused to publish anti-tobacco information, an Internet-based demonstration project was used to reach decision-makers & the general public. The project shows how specialized knowledge on awareness raising campaigns can be transferred from one country to another by using relatively simple Information Communication Technology (ICTs): Email and Internet.

Tobacco, Health, Technology

The main goal of the initiative was to use ICT to heighten public awareness & catalyse the necessary policy change for a tobacco-free environment in the Czech Republic. "The project set out to reach this objective by forming an Internet-based network comprising health professionals & NGOs & by training individuals & organisations to enhance their use of the Internet for research & communication". One of the main results of the project was the establishment of an advocacy NGO dedicated to reducing tobacco use & reforming tobacco policies in the Czech Republic: The Czech Heart Association. The Network offers information about tobacco use & control, heart disease, policy & advocacy in those and other health areas through Internet use. The initiative includes training on the use of Internet for both the gathering of information & as a valuable advocacy tool. Workshops provide an opportunity to establish close contacts between the Network & professional organisations.