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What We Do

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Duke-UNC-TTS-photo1[1]The research and evaluative work done at UNC TPEP informs tobacco regulatory policy and strengthens programs to advance public health. To achieve this, UNC TPEP has two focuses: (1) conduct high-quality tobacco control research to inform policy and (2) perform responsive program evaluation studies for national and state-level clients. Our findings empower decision-makers to implement effective policies, contribute to tobacco regulatory and communication science, and support programs to prevent and reduce the harms of tobacco use in the United States.

Tobacco Control Research:

UNC TPEP has an established history of conducting research using best practices and the most up-to-date research methodologies. Given TPEP is situated within a top research university, our team has the expertise and access to the resources necessary to conduct quantitative and qualitative research, disseminate findings, and contribute to tobacco regulatory and communication science. These contributions are on topics including, but are not limited to: tobacco warning research, evidence-based strategies for tobacco prevention and cessation, media and educational campaigns, tobacco-free policies, youth access, excise taxes, and other specific issues related to tobacco use.

Program Evaluation:

As an independent evaluator, TPEP works with clients at all levels including national, state, and local organizations to identify and meet their evaluation goals as well as those of their funders. Through “utilization-focused” evaluation techniques, evaluation activities and products are designed to provide the most useful information to program leaders and other stakeholders. This includes the design of customized surveillance and monitoring systems for gathering and reporting program data related to process and outcomes. Our staff is known for creative problem-solving, professionalism, and skill in managing project logistics and timelines.

 

Expertise

UNC’s Tobacco Prevention and Evaluation Program is comprised of a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians and researchers with the following expertise:

  • Study design
  • Research methods
  • Instrument development
  • Quantitative analysis
  • Qualitative analysis
  • Utilization-focused evaluation planning and implementation
  • Tobacco prevention and control
  • Tobacco regulatory science research
  • Manuscript and report development
  • Dissemination of findings

 

TPEP services

  • Logic model development
  • Evaluation plan development
  • Creating program indicators
  • Conducting needs assessments
  • Designing and administering mail, telephone, and web-based surveys
  • Conducting secondary data analyses on large databases including YTS and BRFSS
  • Data analysis and interpretation, including the development and dissemination of evaluation briefs and comprehensive reports

 

To learn more about what we do, check out our “Featured Projects.”