Evaluation of a Project for Primary Prevention of Smoking: the Barcelona PASE Pilot Project

Abstract

The results of the short-term evaluation of a program to prevent the use of tobacco and other substances among schoolchildren of sixth and seventh grade are presented. Schoolchildren who participated in the project show significant differences when compared to a referente group through a matched analysis in the regular use of tobacco and having bought tobacco, but not in the experimentation nor in the intention to smoke. The results suggest the program is useful to prevent the onset of smoking, although longer term evaluation data are needed. The results and their implications for a comprehensive smoking prevention approach in schools are discussed.