Paso del Norte Tobacco Control Network Summit Examines Emerging Tobacco, Vaping and Cannabis Trends

The Paso del Norte Health Foundation and the Paso del Norte Tobacco Control Network hosted the 2026 Biennial Summit on October 21, 2026, in El Paso, Texas. The summit brought together public health professionals and community partners to discuss emerging tobacco and vaping trends, strengthen prevention efforts, and address tobacco-related challenges across Texas, New Mexico and the U.S.-Mexico border region.

The summit also celebrated the 25th anniversary of El Paso’s smoke-free ordinance, recognizing its longstanding role in protecting residents from secondhand smoke exposure and the community’s collaborative efforts to promote a healthier region.

Summit Focused on Tobacco Prevention and Emerging Trends

The 2026 Biennial Summit explored changes in commercial tobacco, nicotine, cannabis and vaping products and their impact on public health. Speakers and participants examined current research, regional data, and prevention strategies to strengthen tobacco control efforts throughout the Paso del Norte region.

Key topics included:

• Emerging tobacco, nicotine, cannabis and vaping products and their impact on communities.

• Regional differences and shared public health challenges across Texas, New Mexico and the U.S.-Mexico border.

• Current research, data and lessons learned to inform prevention and intervention efforts.

• Opportunities for collaboration among public health professionals and community partners.

Dr. Brian King Delivered Keynote Address

Dr. Brian King, executive vice president for U.S. programs at the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, delivered the summit’s keynote address. He previously served as director of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Tobacco Products and held leadership positions with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Office on Smoking and Health.

With more than 20 years of experience in tobacco prevention and control, Dr. King brought national expertise to discussions about the evolving tobacco and nicotine landscape.

Who Participated in the Summit?

The summit was designed for professionals and community members working in public health, health care, education and community safety. The intended audience included certified health educators, public health professionals, counselors, psychologists, social workers, nurses, physicians, clinicians, school personnel, law enforcement professionals and other community practitioners.