Smoking rates have declined across most U.S. racial and ethnic groups, yet significant disparities persist. Native Americans and Alaska Natives are the only group experiencing rising rates, while Asians have the lowest prevalence. Experts attribute disparities to concentrated tobacco retail in disadvantaged neighborhoods and differing tobacco tax policies.
Yale researchers found that teens using e-cigarettes for over six months cited low cost and smoking cessation desires as primary reasons. The study revealed that youth attracted to vaping for these motivations were significantly more likely to continue using them, though eighty percent still smoked traditional cigarettes six months later.
This groundbreaking study examines quitline callers across 14 states, revealing essential insights into American Indian and Alaskan Native tobacco cessation patterns. Published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research, the research emphasizes the urgent need for culturally tailored interventions to effectively support this vulnerable population in achieving commercial tobacco cessation.
The CDC 2016 Cancer Summit brought together tribal grantees, CDC staff, and partners to advance cancer control in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Held in Traverse City, Michigan, attendees collaboratively identified priority strategies for the next decade, building on previous summits from 2005 and 2009 to create actionable plans improving health outcomes.
Discover eight free, interactive cancer education modules designed for healthcare workers and anyone seeking knowledge about cancer prevention, risk reduction, and living well with diagnosis. Earn continuing education credits while learning from experts and community health practitioners at your own pace.
At Lower Sioux Indian Community, a health initiative is cultivating change—literally. Through community gardens, policy reform, and traditional food education, leaders are tackling diabetes and obesity by reconnecting members with indigenous foods and healthier lifestyles, proving that small, intentional changes can transform tribal health outcomes.
Skin cancer doesn't discriminate—it affects people of all ages, genders, and skin tones. American Indians face particularly high rates. UV rays damage skin in just 15 minutes, reflecting off water, sand, and snow year-round. Protect yourself with shade, protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, and SPF 15+ sunscreen during outdoor activities.
Sixteen youth leaders from across Missouri gathered at the YMCA of the Ozarks for the "Lead On" summit, learning tobacco control strategies and advocacy skills. Empowered by experts, these young advocates committed to promoting smoke-free environments and educating peers about secondhand smoking dangers throughout their communities.
Join the National Native Network as leading oncology experts from the Salish Cancer Center discuss Native Cancer Wellness. Learn about unique challenges facing Native American cancer patients, explore integrative oncology models, and discover how traditional healing services enhance treatment outcomes for Indigenous communities.
UCLA SAFE launches a three-year initiative to increase smoke-free apartments in Los Angeles low-income neighborhoods. Funded by the CDC, the program targets African American and Latino residents facing disproportionate health risks from secondhand smoke exposure. Surveys show overwhelming tenant and landlord support for smoke-free policies.
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.
National Network of Public Health Institutes Annual Conference | New Orleans, LA | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
2026 National Council of Urban Indian Health Conference | Washington, D.C. | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Webinar | Behavioral Health and Tobacco Product Use: Addressing Disparities, Improving Outcomes | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Partners in Chronic Disease Prevention Symposium | Hosted by Great Plains Tribal Health | Great Plains Tribal Health is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the Partners in Chronic Disease Prevention Symposium. Travel scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To apply for a scholarship, please indicate so on the registration page and return all necessary documents by April 10, 2026. | ATTENDEE REGISTRATION | VENDOR REGISTRATION
