While tobacco plays an important cultural role in many American Indian communities, commercial tobacco use is associated with an increased risk of developing diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke. American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) smoking rates vary widely by region with low smoking rates in the Southwest and high rates in Alaska and the Midwest. On average, however, AI/ANs disproportionately smoke commercial tobacco: 21.5% of AI/ANs compared to 15.8% of Whites.
Impact of Good Health and Wellness in Indian Country Initiative: Tobacco
Two-page summary of the impacts GHWIC has had in grantee communities
