Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke are linked to serious health problems including heart disease, stroke, lung disease, vascular disease, and many types of cancer. These harms affect people of all ages and place a significant burden on families, communities, and the health care system.
Tobacco and nicotine products include more than just traditional cigarettes. Products such as e-cigarettes (vapes), smokeless tobacco, nicotine pouches, cigars, and other emerging products often contain addictive nicotine and harmful chemicals. These products are not risk-free and can negatively impact the brain and body, especially for youth and young adults.
Each year, more than 480,000 people in the United States die from diseases caused by smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. In Florida, approximately 32,300 deaths each year are linked to smoking-related illnesses.
The harm from tobacco and nicotine use also affects people who do not use these products. Exposure to secondhand smoke and aerosol can increase the risks of heart disease, lung cancer, and breathing problems. Protecting people from exposure is an important part of creating healthier environments.
Program Goals
- Prevent youth from starting to use tobacco and nicotine products
- Support tobacco-free public spaces
- Support quitting and cessation efforts
- Partner with schools, community organizations, and local leaders
Tobacco-Free Santa Rosa Coalition
The Tobacco-Free Santa Rosa Coalition was created in 2008 as a community partnership to reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and educate the public on the dangers of tobacco abuse. The coalition empowers and engages educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, community leadership groups, and businesses to work together on adopting a smoke free policy for their schools and worksites. Unanimously, the Tobacco-Free Santa Rosa Coalition believes that prevention and education is the key to reducing the number of citizens that smoke, dip, chew, or vape.
By reducing the number of young people who begin using tobacco and offering cessation opportunities to adults in our community we can save lives.
If you would like to join the coalition, please call 850-564-2253.
Ready to Quit?
Free help is available. Tobacco Free Florida’s Quit Your Way program offers confidential support to help people quit tobacco for good. Services include personalized coaching, online tools, and other quit support options at no costs. Call 877-U-CAN-NOW (877-822-6669) or visit TobaccoFreeFlorida.com to get started.