Traditional tobacco

What is traditional tobacco?

Traditional tobacco is natural and has no additives. The cultural and ceremonial purposes with traditional tobacco differs by each tribe.

Commercial tobacco quitline for American Indian/Alaska Native

Traditional tobacco has purpose and deeply rooted ties with American Indian/Alaska Native people.

IHFS traditional tobacco video series

We collaborated with the Utah Indian Health Advisory Board (UIHAB), tribal public health authorities from the Indian Health System (I/T/U), and tribal communities across Utah to create these videos.

These videos aim to create a platform highlighting the impact of commercial tobacco while honoring the cultural significance of traditional tobacco. This media campaign supports respectful and informed dialogue of wellness while emphasizing both the health risks and the deep-rooted traditions of using tobacco.

To download or reshare videos, contact IHFS tobacco program coordinator Kassie John.

Video 1: "Traditional vs commercial tobacco"

Video 2: "What is traditional tobacco"

Traditional tobacco connects to community, culture, and wellbeing.

Traditional tobacco materials from IHFS

Email Kassie John to request a sample or place an order for these materials.

A woman reading a brochure about traditional tobacco.

Four examples of traditional tobacco posters titled "Honor your traditions", 11" by 17" print.

What is commercial tobacco?

Commercial tobacco is manufactured by companies for recreational use. It has additives and chemicals that can be addictive and harmful to your health.

Commercial tobacco products:

Cigars or cigarillos
Cigarettes
E-cigarettes such as vapes
Smokeless tobacco
Hookah
Pipe tobacco
Chewing tobacco
Nicotine pouches

Health impacts of commercial tobacco use

Commercial tobacco contains thousands of chemicals that can harm your health and increase your risk for chronic health conditions such as cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart and lung disease.

Extended use of nicotine can have long-term effect on mental health, the body, and lead to addiction. To learn more about ways commercial tobacco can impact your health visit tobaccofree.utah.gov or waytoquit.org.

E-cigarettes and vaping

Electronic cigarettes sometimes called e-cigs, vapes, "pens," and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). E-cigarettes come in many shapes and sizes and nearly all e-cigarettes contain nicotine.

The substances in e-cigarette aerosol contain many ultrafine particles including volatile organic compounds, nicotine, cancer-causing chemicals, heavy metals such as nickel, tin, and lead.

IHFS offers a training focused on the American Indian/Alaska Native health impact of commercial tobacco use. Email Kassie John to learn more or schedule this training.