Feasibility and practicability studies of an evaluation index system for implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations of cities in China

INTRODUCTION The aim of the study is to adjust and improve the feasibility and practicability of an evaluation index system, developed for the implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations, by applying it to analyze and compare the contents and implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations in eight legislative cities in China. METHODS In regard to indicators of the established evaluation index system, data on tobacco control/smoke-free laws and regulations and their implementation in some legislative cities in China were collected, sorted, and compared, to examine and adjust the feasibility and practicality of the indicators. RESULTS The evaluation index system for implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations of cities in China has been adjusted to include 5 first-level indicators, including: 1) Simple, clear and executable legislation; 2) Careful planning and sufficient resources for law enforcement; 3) Participation of civil society; 4) Communication; and 5) Monitoring and evaluation of the implementation and impact of laws. There were 27 second-level indicators, including management department, scope of smoke-free places, requirements for non-smoking places etc. There were 27 third-level indicators, including construction of law enforcement, coordination network, work of coordination agencies, staffing situation etc. CONCLUSIONS The preliminary adjusted evaluation index system for the implementation of smoke-free laws and regulations of cities in China provides a reference and standardization for evaluating effectiveness of implementation of Chinese tobacco control laws and regulations.