[Policies for the prevention of addictive substance use and the responsibility of professionals].

Professionals treating persons with addictions must work with the individual characteristics of each case. However, collective aspects shape consumption at the population level and also the personal frequency of exposure which influences the development of dependence. Among factors influencing consumption, some may be modified by regulations or public policies. Most important are those related to substance availability, social acceptability of use, promotion, price, and treatment availability. This editorial discusses actors favouring and opposing the adoption of preventive policies, the contexts in which they are discussed, and the potential role of professionals and their organisations.