Prevention Approach 5: Tobacco-Free Environment Policies

The primary goal of tobacco-free environmental policies is to create environments that do not expose youth to the use and possession of tobacco.

Rationale

Research demonstrates that tobacco use and exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke is a threat to health. Policies restricting the use of tobacco in schools and other environments should reduce adolescents' exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke and limit places where they can use tobacco and thus reduce the health risks associated with tobacco use and secondhand smoke.

Objectives of the Studies Reviewed

• To develop and implement policies restricting or prohibiting tobacco use by adolescents and adults in recreational, school, and work settings

• To evaluate the effectiveness of policies restricting tobacco use on rates of adolescent smoking

• To provide information and services that will assist individuals to develop and comply with policies restricting tobacco use

Activities of the Studies Reviewed

• Review existing laws and compliance with laws restricting tobacco use in certain settings

• Review the effects of antismoking school policies on adolescent smoking

• Provide technical assistance and guidance on developing and implementing tobacco-free policies and environments

• Educate and inform concerned parties about laws restricting tobacco use in certain settings

Lessons Learned From Reviewed Evidence

• The establishment of smoking regulations can be accomplished through a variety of mechanisms, including State and local laws, and policies at businesses, schools, and child-care centers. Comprehensive policies can decrease prevalence rates, especially when their emphasis is on prevention and cessation.

• Harsh penalties for the possession of tobacco products by minors, such as suspension from school, may be ineffective interventions for enhancing the enforcement of antismoking regulations or for preventing or decreasing adolescent tobacco use. Instead, programs that provide prevention or cessation services, such as tobacco education courses, tobacco cessation programs, or diversion alternatives, may be most effective.

  
  

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