Evidence-based prevention is an all-encompassing term that refers to the prevention planning process as well as to the prevention strategies that we implement in Nebraska.

Prevention strategies are policies, programs, and practices that promote the well-being of people and reduce the consumption of - and the problems associated with - alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.

Policy

Rules, regulations, standards, or laws designed to prevent the abuse of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs (e.g., 0.08 Blood Alcohol Content laws, keg registration)

Program

A structured intervention, including environmental initiatives, that is designed to change social, physical, fiscal, or policy conditions within a definable geographic area or for a defined population. (Source: Achieving Outcomes, 12/01)

Practices

Standard activities that are based on policy and designed to prevent substance abuse (e.g., responsible beverage server training, sobriety checks)

Science-Based Strategies

Strategies that are based on scientific theory and principles that have been implemented and found to be effective through a formal evaluation that has been published in a peer-reviewed journal.

But, not all prevention strategies we implement have reached the level of scientific rigor described by science-based strategies. In Nebraska, we are also engaged in implementing many "promising" prevention strategies.

Promising Strategies

Strategies that are based upon scientific theory and principles that have been implemented, formally evaluated, and found to produce desired outcomes in behavior, attitude and/or knowledge.