Primary care interventions to prevent tobacco use in children and adolescents: U.S. preventive services task force recommendation statement.

DESCRIPTION: Update of the 2003 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendation on primary care interventions to prevent tobacco use in children and adolescents.

METHODS: The USPSTF reviewed the evidence on the effectiveness of primary care interventions on the rates of initiation or cessation of tobacco use in children and adolescents and on health outcomes, such as respiratory health, dental and oral health, and adult smoking. The USPSTF also reviewed the evidence on the potential harms of these interventions.

POPULATION: This recommendation applies to school-aged children and adolescents. The USPSTF has issued a separate recommendation statement on tobacco use counseling in adults and pregnant women.

RECOMMENDATION: The USPSTF recommends that primary care clinicians provide interventions, including education or brief counseling, to prevent initiation of tobacco use in school-aged children and adolescents.