Spit Tobacco Prevention

The Spit Tobacco Prevention Network, which began in 1996 as an extension of the Dental Oncology Education Program, was established with the purpose of reducing spit tobacco use in Texas. Community partners such as the Texas School Health Network assist the program in gaining access to communities and through the distribution of educational materials. Representatives from other partners, including the American Cancer Society - Texas Division, the DOEP, and Texas A&M Health Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry assist the program by serving on the program’s steering committee and providing materials and/or personnel to conduct trainings for health education professionals and teachers.

STOPN shifted its focus in 2003 to concentrate primarily on prevention efforts among Texas’ youth.  STOPN’s Communities Against Smokeless Tobacco – Kids Program trains high school students to provide education presentations to youth at elementary and junior high public schools throughout the state. 

Program activities are guided by the Texas Cancer Plan, Texas Spit Tobacco Education and Prevention Plan:  A Guide for Action, and the steering committee which includes dentists, physicians, nurses, and professionals in the areas of cancer research and education.