Lorillard Tobacco Co. is launching a nationwide youth smoking-prevention program in addition to the one included in the industry's $206 billion settlement with 46 states.

The program, which urges parents to talk to their children about not smoking, includes national print and broadcast announcements, Web sites and a multi-city tour. Philip Morris Inc., the leading cigarette maker, sponsored a similar program earlier this year that critics said lacked credibility with children. Lorillard officials said their program was carefully researched to ensure it wouldn't be perceived as even remotely encouraging tobacco consumption. ``We have developed a program that is aggressive, highly creative and effective in getting the message to kids that they should not smoke,'' Ron Milstein, a Lorillard vice president, said Monday.

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