Summary: | First in a series of guidelines developed under the direction of CSAP's Division of State and Community System Development. Because of the wealth of information on this topic, a select number of approaches to the prevention of tobacco use were identified for this guideline. They include the following: economic interventions, counteradvertising, interventions directed toward tobacco retailers, multicomponent community approaches, tobacco-free environment policies, advertising and promotion restrictions. At the time of publication, significant changes have occurred in the social context of tobacco use among youth. Substantial evidence has come to light regarding the addictive properties of nicotine, and the tobacco companies are negotiating with the Clinton administration on ways to both reduce the lure of tobacco and curtail tobacco advertising that is appealing to youth. However, in spite of this and similar efforts, the need for communities to be vigilant and to employ the best knowledge available to reduce and stop tobacco use among youth is vital. These developments underscore the utility of this guideline
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