“According to data, 27% of all American Indian and Alaska Natives smoke commercial cigarettes. But compared to other racial/ethnic groups, they have over six times higher rates of smoking-related cancers, including lung cancer. “ Fred Hutch Cancer Center

https://www.fredhutch.org/en/news/center-news/2023/10/smoking-cessation-trial-american-indians-alaska-natives-funded.html#:~:text=According%20to%20data%2C%2027%25%20of,related%20cancers%2C%20including%20lung%20cancer.

On the graph below, you can see the high rate of smoking prevalence within the Native American community in Vermont.

Keep It Sacred National Native Network: Traditional Tobacco -

“Traditional tobacco has been used by American Indian nations for centuries as a medicine with cultural and spiritual importance. Many Tribes maintain teachings and stories on the origin of tobacco.1 These teachings address tobacco in its purest form, today known as the tobacco plant Nicotiana rustica, and may include mixtures of other native plants.2”

https://keepitsacred.itcmi.org/tobacco-and-tradition/traditional-tobacco-use/#:~:text=It%20may%20be%20used%20as,for%20healing%20in%20traditional%20medicine.

As with most Indigenous communities, the Vermont Abenaki’s relationship with tobacco has been impacted by centuries of colonization. How tobacco is used and viewed has changed for many in our community. Part of our work at AHH is to reclaim traditional practices and honor the traditional role of tobacco while addressing the health impacts of commercial tobacco.

If you or someone you know is ready to quit commercial tobacco products, there are programs available to help. The American Indian Commercial Tobacco Program offers dedicated native coaches, a customized quit plan, free quit medications, and cash rewards – up to $250 – to increase your chances of success. Enroll today at 802quits.org/support-for-me/indigenous-peoples/