Taking Pride in a Healthy Community

LGBTQIA+ Coloradans face unique health challenges, but we’re stronger when we support one another. Let’s work together to leave tobacco and nicotine behind for good.

Tobacco companies have long targeted our community. But we’re taking back control and breaking free. By quitting, you can improve your health and show others the power of change.

You’re Not Alone: Listen to Other’s Stories

Standing Up Against Big Tobacco 

Using our culture and icons to sell their deadly products, tobacco companies target LGBTQIA+ Coloradans. They sponsor our events, advertise in our community, magazines, and even show up at our bars, clubs, and community places. 

These companies know that tobacco use is higher among us, and they exploit this to increase their sales. But we’re fighting back. 

Did you know? 

  • More than 30,000 of us die of tobacco-related illnesses every year in the United States.1
  • LGBTQIA+ people spend $2.6 billion on cigarettes each year.2
  • LGBTQIA+ people are nearly twice as likely to use e-cigarettes and little cigars compared to straight adults.3
  • Transgender adults are significantly more likely than cisgender adults to currently use any tobacco product (e.g., cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and cigars).3
Organizations in Colorado are creating tobacco and nicotine-free spaces and events, helping LGBTQIA+ Coloradans see a healthier future supporting our community with quitting. These partners are helping our community kick tobacco and nicotine addiction: 

Creating a Healthier Community Together

You don’t have to quit alone. The Colorado Quitline provides free, supportive coaching based on your goals. You’ll never be pushed into something you don’t want to do.

Plus, the Colorado QuitLine can help you get medications to help you cut back or quit, and other resources —all for free. Whether you’re ready to quit or just thinking about it, support for LGBTQIA+ people is available every step of the way. 

No matter where you are in your quit journey, we have info to help you. Visit the Quit Your Way page to learn more. 

References
1. Flavored Disease and Death for Minorities, American Progress, 2011, https://www.americanprogress.org/article/flavored-disease-and-death-for-minorities/
2. 2021 Annual Report, National LGBT Cancer Network, 2021, https://cancer-network.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/LGBT-CancerNetwork-AnnualReport2022-Digital-Compressed-060322.pdf
3. Tobacco Use in LGBT Communities, Truth Initiative, 2021, https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources/targeted-communities/tobacco-use-lgbt-communities