MRHA Webinar: A Rural Community Approach to Youth Tobacco Prevention

at alarming rates, with rural youth experiencing some of the greatest impacts. Educators, healthcare providers, public health professionals, and community leaders are increasingly challenged by this epidemic—while the tobacco industry continues to aggressively target youth in rural communities.

This webinar will examine the impact of tobacco use on rural Missouri communities and explore upstream, evidence-based strategies to prevent and reduce youth tobacco use. Participants will learn to recognize tobacco industry tactics, identify effective prevention approaches, and understand how to build community and decision-maker readiness for meaningful, sustainable change. The session will emphasize collaboration and practical strategies that leverage local strengths to protect youth and advance public health in rural areas. Target Audience: Professionals and leaders in public health, public policy, social services, community-based organizations, K–12 schools, higher education, healthcare, substance use prevention and treatment, mental health services, and the non-profit sector, as well as students, parents, community members, advocates, policymakers, and…