Tobacco use remains a major public health concern in Kansas, leading to thousands of preventable deaths each year and contributing to chronic illnesses such as heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke.

These health impacts reduce quality of life and place a significant strain on families and the healthcare system.

Community health coalitions have a powerful opportunity to prevent the next generation from starting to use commercial tobacco and nicotine products in the first place.

By prioritizing prevention through education, policy, youth engagement, and community-wide efforts, we can stop tobacco use before it starts and build healthier, more resilient communities across Kansas.