Expanded school-based program linked to lower youth tobacco use rates in California
January 12, 2026 by medicalxpress.com
Expanded school-based program linked to lower youth tobacco use rates in California
A study by University of California San Diego shows California's school-based tobacco prevention program, TUPE, led to 20% lower overall tobacco use and 23% lower vaping among middle and high school students. The program, funded by Proposition 56, provided education and activities that significantly reduced tobacco use rates. TUPE-funded schools saw more prevention education and anti-tobacco activities, contributing to lower tobacco use compared to non-TUPE schools. The findings highlight the importance of investing in effective prevention strategies to safeguard young people from addiction. School-based prevention programs, when combined with strong policies, play a key role in comprehensive tobacco control efforts, offering long-term public health benefits.
