Citrus County's tobacco control programs play a crucial role in the prevention of many chronic conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illness. Comprehensive tobacco prevention and cessation programs prevent kids from starting to smoke, help adult smokers quit, educate the public, the media and policymakers about policies that reduce tobacco use, address disparities, and serve as a counter to the ever-present tobacco industry.
Our Mission:
The mission of the Tobacco Free Partnership of Citrus County is to mobilize community partners to establish long-lasting system and policy changes that promote tobacco-free social norms to prevent usage of tobacco products by youth/young adults, eliminate the hazards of secondhand smoke, and decrease the number of deaths due to tobacco products.
Our Motivation:
- Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States.
- Nine out of ten cigarette smokers start by age 18.
- Smokers are more likely than nonsmokers to develop heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.
- Nearly 30 percent of cancer deaths in Florida are caused by cigarette smoking.
Our Methods:
- Strengthen relationships within the local community.
- Educate community members on tobacco-related issues.
- Promote positive tobacco reform.
- Build youth leaders and partnerships to invest in their community's future.
Priority Areas:
- Point of Sale
- Health Equity
- K-12
- Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT)
