Central ND News

Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health is set to participate in the National Day of Action, known as Take Down Tobacco Day, on April 1, 2025. This event is part of a nationwide initiative led by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids aimed at empowering youth and raising awareness about nicotine addiction. The day focuses on combating Big Tobacco's influence within communities.

Take Down Tobacco Day highlights the strategies used by tobacco companies to target young individuals and vulnerable groups through tactics such as flashy packaging and flavored products. The movement seeks to expose these practices and advocate for a healthier future free from tobacco.

Statistics indicate that commercial tobacco-related illnesses claim nearly half a million American lives annually, including over 1,000 North Dakotans. Youth are particularly susceptible, with e-cigarettes and flavored products often serving as entry points into lifelong addiction.

Data from North Dakota's Tobacco Prevention and Control Program reveals concerning usage rates among students. In high schools, 5.4% of students currently smoke, 18.2% use vape devices, 3.4% use smokeless tobacco, and 4.2% use cigars. Among middle schoolers, 2.6% currently smoke, 7.6% use vape devices, 1.2% use smokeless tobacco, and 1.1% use cigars.

"Quitting commercial tobacco is a win for your health, your wallet, and your future," stated Alexis Raymond from Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health. "This Take Down Tobacco Day, we stand together to promote the benefits of a tobacco-free life—because better health, more energy, and financial freedom are worth fighting for."

For further details about local Take Down Tobacco events, contact BBPH Tobacco Prevention Specialist Alexis Raymond at 701-355-1595 or via email at araymond@bismarcknd.gov.