An evaluation of a smoking prevention programme with children from disadvantaged communities

This study examined the effect of a novel smoking prevention programme on children in primary schools in disadvantaged areas. The programme included integration with other school subjects as well as parental involvement and visits by Health Board personnel. Compared to matched control groups the classes in which the programme was piloted, showed less positive attitudes towards smoking and greater awareness of the dangerous consequences of smoking. The results are considered in the context of the need for approaches to smoking prevention that include both education and the restriction of access.