Tools and media for effective THR communication

Effective THR communication relies on diverse media, not just leaflets or official campaigns. Across LMICs, THRSP-supported work has used:

• Social media (Twitter/X, Instagram, TikTok) to counter misinformation in real time
• Blogs and websites to provide trusted, locally relevant information
• Short films and video explainers to reach low-literacy audiences
• Community radio and theatre to reach rural populations
• WhatsApp and Telegram groups for peer-to-peer education and support

Visual tools are especially powerful. Simple graphics showing the risk continuum or short videos explaining why smoke causes harm (not nicotine itself) have proven far more effective than technical explanations. Myth-busting works best when it is calm, respectful, and acknowledges uncertainty rather than dismissing concerns.