Evaluation of an Antismoking Program Among High School Students

Abstract

The number of regular smokers was determined before and after an anti-smoking program was carried out in the school year, 1963-64, in an all-boys high school in Baltimore (the experimental school). The number of smokers in a comparable school without the program was determined at the same time. In both schools the proportion of smokers increased slightly in the 10th grade and decreased in the 11th and 12th; the total change for all students and for students in comparable, college prep courses at the 2 schools was negligible in both schools. Forty-three percent of all students were smokers at the experimental school in the fall and in the spring; 32% at the other school. Because the program was of limited duration and intensity, was carried out among students at an age when many had already begun smoking, and was countered by much pro-smoking material, recommendations were suggested to begin such programs at an earlier time in school; to involve the students and teachers actively in the program; to change adult and community attitudes as well.