The MFH Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Initiative (TPCI) began in 2004 as a nine-year, multi-phase program that includes grantmaking, policy, capacity building, evaluation and communication activities. MFH took a comprehensive approach to tobacco use when developing TPCI in order to assure integration of all aspects of prevention and cessation.
This model for comprehensive tobacco prevention is based on the under standing that behavior change requires awareness, education, and policy and environmental changes. Comprehensive tobacco control programs are proven to significantly reduce smoking, which in turn reduces morbidity, mortality and health care costs.
Throughout the development of this initiative, MFH met with representatives from the Missouri Statewide Tobacco Steering Committee to review the key components and needs of the Missouri Comprehensive Tobacco Use Prevention Program. The guiding principles, strategies and objectives from the statewide plan were utilized to form the basis for the MFH Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Initiative.