This paper reported on a study of the effects of a novel smoking prevention programme on children in primary schools in disadvantaged areas. Parental involvement and visits by health board personnel were features of the programme, and integration with other school subjects was included as well.

Compared to matched control groups, the classes in which the programme was piloted showed fewer positive attitudes towards smoking and greater awareness of the dangerous consequences of smoking. The results were considered in the context of approaches to prevention of smoking that included education and the restriction of access to cigarettes.