LCAT created the National Hispanic/Latino Tobacco Prevention and Control Network during the program’s first year.

Since 2000, the Network has grown to include nearly 2,500 Hispanics/Latinos working to expand and enhance tobacco prevention and control efforts targeting diverse Hispanic/Latino subgroups.

(A tailored approach in working with subgroups is important because of differences among them, including their use of tobacco. For example, according to the 2002 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 36% of Puerto Ricans aged 12 or older reported cigarette use in the past year, while the percent for Mexicans was significantly lower at approximately 28%.)

The diversity of the Network mirrors the diversity of the Hispanic/Latino population. Every Hispanic/Latino subgroup and region of the country is well represented.

The Network is professionally diverse as well. Its members include tobacco prevention and control experts, researchers, physicians, academics, elected officials, representatives from community-based organizations and other nonprofits, and community leaders.

While the Network is national in scope and supports change on the national level, it emphasizes grassroots change, with members concentrating their efforts at the local and state levels.

The Network is significant in identifying and connecting those active in Hispanic/Latino tobacco prevention and control and providing an organizational structure for efficient communication, agenda setting, and mobilization.