[The tobacco industry and smoking promotion among minors and youths: an international review].

OBJECTIVES To compile scientific documentation of the historic interest of the tobacco industry in minors and youths. METHODS We performed a literature review of electronic scientific databases and an electronic search of technical reports and scientific articles published after 1999. RESULTS Thirteen technical reports and 30 articles in international scientific journals and other publications were retrieved and summarized. Most reports and articles focused on advertisements and marketing. CONCLUSIONS This study compiled evidence of the interest of the tobacco industry in promoting tobacco use among minors and youths globally, as well as in interfering with tobacco control policies that prevent tobacco smoking initiation among youths.