Wrangell High School cheerleaders joined SEARHC Health Educator Tammi Meissner to celebrate the Great American Smokeout by collecting cigarette butts downtown. The group collected 13.4 pounds of butts on November 5th, raising awareness about tobacco's harmful effects during this nationally recognized health initiative.
A 2019 CDC study reveals alarming e-cigarette adoption among U.S. youth: 27.5% of high school students and 10.5% of middle schoolers reported current use. Approximately 1.6 million students used e-cigarettes frequently, with 970,000 using them daily, highlighting urgent need for evidence-based prevention strategies.
As of October 29, 2019, the CDC reported 1,888 confirmed and probable lung injury cases associated with e-cigarette and vaping product use across 49 states. Tragically, 37 deaths have been confirmed in 24 states and Washington, D.C., marking a serious public health crisis requiring immediate attention and investigation.
Adolescent suicide rates have surged 87% since 2007, while vaping among teens skyrockets. Sexual minority and American Indian youth face disproportionately higher risks. Evidence-based, cross-sector strategies are essential to combat these interconnected crises and protect vulnerable young people.
Discover the latest developments in Native health and wellness. Learn how Michigan led the nation in banning flavored e-cigarettes, and how the Oglala Sioux Tribe took decisive action on Pine Ridge Reservation. Plus, explore inspiring success stories, upcoming events, and access archived webinars designed for Native communities.
As of October 22, 2019, CDC reports 1,604 lung injury cases linked to e-cigarette and vaping products across 49 states, with 34 confirmed deaths. THC-containing products, particularly those from informal sources, are implicated in most cases. CDC recommends avoiding all vaping products until the outbreak's cause is identified.
As of October 22, 2019, the CDC reported 1,604 confirmed and probable lung injury cases linked to e-cigarette and vaping products across 49 states and U.S. territories. Tragically, 34 deaths have been confirmed in 24 states, with patients ranging from 17 to 75 years old.
During August-October 2019, Utah reported 83 vaping-related lung injury cases. Nearly all patients used THC-containing cartridges, with most requiring hospitalization and half needing breathing assistance. Testing revealed Vitamin E acetate in products. The CDC recommends avoiding all vaping products until the cause is definitively determined.
Join Dr. Mary Owen, a Tlingit physician and Director of the Center for American Indian and Minority Health, for an essential webinar on liver cancer in Indian Country. Learn from her expertise in addressing health disparities affecting Native communities. Wednesday, October 23, 12-1 PM Central.
The Oglala Sioux Tribal Council has banned e-cigarette sales, possession, and use on Pine Ridge Reservation, citing nationwide vaping-related illnesses. The ban carries penalties up to $250 or 30 days jail time. Tribal President Julian Bear Runner calls it "bold action," advocating for broader tobacco regulation to protect youth health and tribal sovereignty against industries that have "profited from our misery."
Attending any of these upcoming events? Have other events to share? Let us know! Email us at NNN@ITCMI.ORG to share your event information or to get on our list serve for event updates.
Great Lakes Area Tribal Public Health Conference | LEARN MORE
Association of American Indian Physicians 2026 54th Annual Meeting and National Health Conference | Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark | Deadline to reserve hotel: 8/17/2026 | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Michigan Premier Public Health Conference | Blue Water Convention Center, Port Huron, Michigan | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
National Conference on Tobacco or Health (NCTOH) | San Diego, California | Registration will open July 7, 2026 | Abstract Submissions will open on August 4 | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
National Conference on Tobacco or Health | The National Network of Public Health Institutes is excited to announce the start of registration for the next National Conference on Tobacco or Health (NCTOH), June 29 - July 1, 2027 in San Diego, CA. | Questions: nctoh@nnphi.org | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
