The list of illnesses caused by tobacco use is long and contains many of the most common causes of death, including heart disease, stroke, lung disease, many forms of cancer, and vascular diseases.
Cigarette use alone, results in an estimated 430,000 deaths each year in the U.S., including 28,600 deaths in Florida. Secondhand smoke causes 50,000 deaths each year among adult non-smokers in the United States with 2,520 of those deaths among Floridians.
Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death in Florida, making it imperative for us to take decisive action. The Tobacco Prevention and Control Program in Lee County focuses on improving the health of its residents by preventing and reducing the use of tobacco and nicotine products through policy, system, and environmental changes.
Tobacco Free Florida
We understand that quitting tobacco can be a challenging journey, but it is possible. You are not alone.
For more information on how to begin your quit journey or to explore the resources available, please visit TobaccoFreeFlorida.com.
Remember, you have the strength to quit, and with Tobacco Free Florida, you have a partner dedicated to your success.
Students Working Against Tobacco
Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) takes great pride in empowering youth in middle and high school to join the cause of combating the deceptive tactics used by the tobacco industry, which specifically target new and younger consumers.
SWAT provides students with real-life experiences in planning, executing, and evaluating tobacco prevention activities.
By participating in SWAT, youth can earn community service hours, develop essential leadership skills, and become a formidable force in advocating for healthier living among peers.
Join SWAT and take an active role in shaping a tobacco free future. For more information call 239-332-9510 or visit SWATFlorida.com.
The Tobacco-Free Lee Coalition
The Tobacco-Free Lee Coalition (TFLC), established in 2009, is a collaborative effort dedicated to the shared vision of creating a tobacco-free environment in Lee County. The coalition brings together representatives from healthcare and nonprofit organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, and community leadership groups.
TFLC aims to cultivate a tobacco-free atmosphere throughout the county, safeguarding non-smokers from involuntary exposure to harmful secondhand smoke. Our key objectives are:
- Preventing youth and young adult tobacco use
- Protecting Lee County citizens from secondhand
smoke - Supporting tobacco users in their quit journey
By collaborating with stakeholders like you, we strengthen our impact and create lasting positive change. We invite you to become a part of our partnership.
Current Initiatives:
- Smoke Free Multi-Unit Housing
- Tobacco Free K-12 Schools
- Tobacco Free Parks & Beaches
- Tobacco Cessation Access
- Educating on Dangers of E-Cigarettes/Vaping
To join us or learn more about our efforts, please contact us at 239-332-9536 or email AHECtobacco.com. Together, we can make a difference in the health and wellbeing of our community.