Oregon faces a heated debate over tobacco licensing. Public health advocates and retailers clashed at the State Capitol over Senate Bill 1559, which would require state licensing of tobacco retailers. While retailers support a statewide system, advocates want local jurisdictions to impose additional restrictions, including pharmacy bans and school-distance requirements, to combat the nation's highest youth tobacco sales rate.
National Jewish Health launches the first tobacco-cessation program designed specifically for American Indians. The American Indian Commercial Tobacco Quitline offers culturally sensitive coaching from Native coaches, nicotine replacement therapy, and focuses on reducing commercial tobacco use rather than complete cessation, recognizing tobacco's cultural significance.
Recent research from Johns Hopkins reveals a critical balance: heart attack survivors with high fitness levels face 40% fewer deaths, yet excessive exercise reverses these benefits. The key? Moderate activity—running under 30 miles weekly—combined with practices like yoga offers optimal cardiovascular protection without overdoing it.
This February, the Michigan Tobacco Quitline offers eight weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy to support the CDC's Tips from Former Smokers campaign. Real stories from people living with smoking-related diseases inspire millions to quit. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW today.
The Inside Knowledge campaign educates women about five gynecologic cancers: cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar. Through PSAs featuring actress Cote de Pablo sharing her cervical cancer experience, the campaign empowers women to recognize warning signs and seek timely medical care, available in English and Spanish.
Secondhand smoke exposure in children correlates with increased body fat and impaired cognitive function, according to new research. A study of 220 overweight children aged 7-11 found those exposed to passive smoking scored lower on cognitive tests and exhibited greater adiposity. Researchers warn passive smoke independently worsens health outcomes beyond obesity's effects alone.
Arkansas faces a critical tobacco crisis, with adult smoking rates at 25.9 percent—nearly double the national average. The St. Bernards Tobacco Prevention Program is combating this through data collection and community education, targeting youth prevention, smoke-free environments, and cessation support. Emerging trends like e-cigarettes and flavored products pose growing concerns for young people across the state.
Public health professionals partnered with California's Redding Rancheria tribe to implement smoke-free policies at Win-River Resort and Casino. By measuring indoor air quality and engaging stakeholders through surveys and community meetings, they demonstrated secondhand smoke risks. This collaborative approach successfully reduced harmful PM2.5 exposure by 98%, offering a replicable model for tribal nations.
The HPV vaccine stands as one of modern medicine's most powerful cancer prevention tools. Leading cancer centers nationwide are uniting to promote vaccination as a critical defense against cervical and other HPV-related cancers. Healthcare providers can leverage free CDC resources to educate adolescents and community leaders, making vaccination accessible at every clinical opportunity.
Casino smoking bans could boost patronage and protect health. A tribal casino survey found 54% of patrons would visit more if smoking were prohibited, with strongest support among older, wealthier, and restaurant-visiting guests. Implementing smoke-free policies benefits both business and public health.
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 Tribal Tobacco Conference | June 23, 2026 | Minneapolis, MN | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Webinar | Defining the Wins: Statewide Policy Change Strategies for Public Health | 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
