Topic: Health

Two reports explore the scope of cannabis in Indiana and the policy factors shaping it. The first examines the cannabis landscape in Indiana, showing that Hoosier cannabis use has more than doubled in the past decade to 16%. The second, which looks at cannabis policy factors, describes four approaches to cannabis regulation and outlines 14 considerations for making policy decisions.

Indiana has some of the highest smoking and vaping rates in the nation. This report summary consolidates the findings of four separate commissioned studies about the impacts of smoking and vaping in Indiana, including highlighting the health and economic impact of tobacco on the state.

Indiana has the seventh-highest vaping rate in the country. The study’s findings show vaping comes with considerable health and economic consequences, including impaired brain development and increased healthcare costs. The report also highlights recommendations for key stakeholder groups.

In 2018, the Fairbanks Foundation launched Prevention Matters to help K-12 schools in Marion County identify and implement proven substance use prevention programs. This report outlines guidance for funders seeking to support prevention programs.

In 2018, the Fairbanks Foundation launched مسائل الوقاية to help K-12 schools in Marion County identify and implement proven substance use prevention programs. This evaluation provides information on implementation and outcomes, including successes, challenges, and lessons learned over throughout the initiative.

Reducing tobacco use in Indiana—where smoking rates remain higher than the national average—would not only save lives but also drive substantial economic gains in the state, including population growth, added jobs, and higher incomes.

Indiana has the eighth-highest rate of smoking in the country, and 11,000 Hoosiers die each year from smoking-related diseases. The report includes several findings, including that a $2 per pack tax on cigarettes could decrease the state’s smoking rate while also saving money and generating revenue.

From extra absenteeism and unsanctioned smoking breaks to excess healthcare costs, employees who smoke cost Indiana employers $3.1 billion annually. This report explores the hidden “smoking tax” paid by Hoosier employers.

Healthy students make better learners and are more likely to see positive academic outcomes. Based on the Fairbanks Foundation’s historical funding for school-based health services, this lessons learned document offers guidance for future implementation efforts by schools and healthcare providers.