ASCO issues recommendations for promoting tobacco control

(HealthDay)—The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has updated the 2003 recommendations on tobacco cessation and control; the policy statement has been published online July 29 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Nasser Hanna, M.D., and colleagues from ASCO reviewed advancements in tobacco cessation and control since 2003 and updated their recommendations.

According to the report, oncology providers should be given the evidence-based and practical information they need to educate the public, including tools for diverse populations. Access to proven tobacco cessation interventions should be promoted and support provided for current Affordable Care Act initiatives on tobacco cessation services. Tobacco cessation measures should be integrated into high-quality cancer care. Although significant advances have been made in the field of tobacco cessation, more research needs to be supported, including programs targeting specific populations. ASCO will work to support tobacco control policies, including increasing tobacco excise taxes, implementation and enforcement of indoor clean air policies, ensuring funding for tobacco control policies, and eliminating advertising focused on youth. ASCO also supports and advocates for international policy initiatives to promote tobacco cessation.

"Given the indisputable scientific evidence that tobacco poses a huge burden in cancer incidence and death worldwide, it is our responsibility as cancer doctors to help our patients quit and oppose tobacco use in all its forms," Clifford A. Hudis, M.D., the president of ASCO, said in a statement. "We are deeply committed to proactive tobacco control and have set an aggressive agenda for moving forward in this critical area."

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