Ventura County Public Health, in partnership with Ventura County Action on Smoking and Health (VC‑ASH), is joining the global observance of World No Tobacco Day on May 31. The annual event, established by the World Health Organization, highlights the health and environmental harms caused by tobacco use and calls attention to prevention and cessation efforts across communities.
This year’s theme, “Unmasking the Appeal,” focuses on exposing the tactics tobacco companies use to attract youth, including flavored products and targeted marketing strategies. Local officials emphasize that these tactics contribute to tobacco’s role as one of the leading causes of preventable disease and death worldwide.
Vicky Gonzales of Ventura County Public Health stated that the department remains committed to providing residents with the information and resources needed to quit tobacco and protect young people from nicotine exposure. The county’s Tobacco Education and Prevention Program (TEPP) and the Call It Quits program continue to offer free counseling, personalized quit plans, and long‑term support for individuals seeking to stop tobacco use.
Local prevention strategies include community presentations, retailer education, and policy development aimed at reducing youth access and shifting social norms around tobacco. VC‑ASH also advocates for smoke‑free environments throughout Ventura County. Environmental impacts remain a key concern, as tobacco cultivation and consumption contribute to deforestation, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Residents seeking support can access free quit resources through Ventura County Public Health or contact the Tobacco Use Quitline at 805‑201‑STOP (7867).
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Sources
- PRLog
- The Californer
- Amigos805
- Patch