Along with an individual approach (behavioural and/or pharmacological interventions) to smoking cessation and treatment of tobacco dependence, a supportive environment is needed to encourage tobacco consumers in their attempts to quit. Treatment of tobacco dependence should be part of a comprehensive tobacco-control policy along with measures such as taxation and price policies, advertising restrictions, dissemination of information and establishment of smoke-free public places.

The recommendations contained in this book propose a broad framework for addressing smoking cessation and treatment of tobacco dependence. In this framework, Governments can progressively choose minimal, expanded and core recommendations as they strengthen their resources and capacities.