Tobacco Use Prevention

Smoking is the #1 cause of preventable death in the United States, and every year 11,700 Georgia adults die due to tobacco related illnesses. The Tobacco Prevention and Control efforts at the health department use comprehensive strategies to reduce tobacco use and tobacco-related disease and death. The Tobacco Prevention efforts are administered locally at the Gwinnett, Newton, and Rockdale County Health Department. The program focuses on improving the health of Gwinnett, Newton, & Rockdale County residents through policy and systems change under four main goals:

• Prevent Initiation of Tobacco Products Among Youth and Young Adults
• Eliminate Secondhand Smoke Exposure
• Promote Smoke-Free Businesses and Workplaces
• Promote Cessation from Tobacco Use

Programs and Services

The Tobacco Prevention efforts are addressed through partnerships with community organizations.

We work with the Gwinnett United in Drug Education (GUIDE), Newton and Rockdale Drug Free Coalitions to address the smoking rates of youth and adults in those counties. Georgia Department of Public Health funds provide an avenue to work with local businesses and schools to promote smoke-free businesses and campuses.

Partner with us, request resources, or make a presentation request

If you or your community groups are interested in partnering with GNR to tackle tobacco issues, please contact Lewis Ponzo, Director of Community Health and Chronic Disease at lewis.ponzo@gnrhealth.com.  In addition, please contact Lewis to request posters, brochures, signage, and other tobacco cessation resources, or to request a presentation at your school or workplace.

Community Partnerships 

• Gwinnett United in Drug Education (GUIDE)
• Newton Drug Free Community Coalition
• Rockdale Drug Free Coalition 

Did you know? The legal age to purchase tobacco products in Georgia was increased from 18 to 21 as of July 22, 2020.

• Georgia Senate Bill 375 – Tobacco 21 Law Knowledge Check for Retailers
• Georgia Senate Bill 375 – Tobacco 21 Law: What You Need to Know
• Retailer Letter

Helpful Links 

Georgia Quit Line

Steps to Quit Smoking

Tobacco Use in Georgia

Georgia Tobacco Information

FDA Education Program

Tobacco Products, Alternative Nicotine Products, and Vapor Production FAQ

Senate Bill 375

Tobacco 21 Law

Quit for You, Quit for Two

Baby and Me Tobacco Free

National Texting Portal

Smokefree Text Messaging Programs