Although there is no single definition of prevention, researchers generally agree that the most effective approach to reducing alcohol, tobacco and other drug problems is through public health resources. The public health approach focuses on communities, not individuals, and stresses the involvement of concerned community members. This document provides topical updates for the prevention practitioner, as well as basic information and resources community members need to become successful practitioners. In more than 50 chapters, arranged alphabetically by topic, the document presents information concerning, among other subjects: acronyms; AIDS; different ethnic groups and different age groups; binge drinking; birth defects; dietary guidelines; Employee Assistance Programs; environmental approaches; Federal agencies; prevention strategies; RADAR (Regional Alcohol and Drug Awareness Resource) network; risk factors; social marketing; student assistance programs; and youth attitudes and use. References, index