Tobacco Resources

The history of tobacco begins in the 1400s when it was grown by Native People in southern North America. Starting in the 1600s, commercial tobacco growing began and cigarettes became popular and, by the 1700s, tobacco became the dominant crop in the same area. When the rolling machine was invented in 1880, tobacco use soared, as does the use of slave labor to meet the increased demand. The first research linking tobacco use to cancer was done in Germany in 1930 and it wasn’t until 1964 that the United States Surgeon General warned the public about the health risks of smoking.

In the 1990s, smoking bans on commercial transportation were passed and the Tobacco Industry began to research “smokeless alternatives” like chewing tobacco. Shortly after, tobacco companies also began researching non-combustible cigarettes because smoking rates were declining. In the early 2000s, the first e-cigarette was created in China and the E-Cigarette Industry was mainstream by the end of that decade.

In 2015, youth use of tobacco and nicotine use, and e-cigarettes, was at an all time low. That same year, Juul launched, targeting youth with flavored nicotine salts that delivered a higher level of nicotine. Though the Federal Food & Drug Administration gave a warning to the Tobacco Industry, they allow companies to pursue e-cigarette. In 2018 alone, youth vaping increased by 78% in a single year; the same year that Altria, formerly Philip Morris, bought over $13 billion of Juul products. By 2020, over 2,000 lawsuits were filed against Juul and other e-cigarette companies due to flavors targeting youth and disposable vape products. In 2022, Juul settled in court, paying $500 million to 34 states in the US.

It is possible to build a tolerance to the drug nicotine which is found in tobacco. Recreational and habitual use of tobacco carries several risks, including possible misuse, addiction, and overdose.

Local prevention works. As more spaces become smoke-free and more cessation support is available, norms begin to shift. Also educating children early and often about the risks of harm from inhaling and handling nicotine is a strong influence to not start.

Smoke-free signage and accompanying policy protect designated public and/or private spaces. Signs can be found at medical facilities, government offices, stores, restaurants and schools. And the risk of harm from second-hand smoke is especially dangerous for children, pets, and people with respiratory issues. Hazardous nicotine residue coats the furniture and floor where pets play and children crawl, and can be accidentally digested. 

The Collaborative’s display boards are available for organizations, schools, farmers’ markets, bank lobbies, or for anyone to borrow. The nicotine/vaping education board is paired with the interactive Vape Jeopardy board. Students and adults enjoy playing  the quick quiz-style game and then referring to the flip side of the display for more details and resources.

Great American Smoke Out - Every November

Take Down Tobacco National Day of Action - Every March 31st & April 1st

Dates may vary for local events celebrating these national tobacco prevention celebration initiatives.