Healthier

healthier topper

Smoke-free living

The Snohomish Health District is working to reduce the number of illnesses and deaths in our communities related to tobacco use.

District staff provide technical support and advocate for tobacco-free, smoke-free and vape-free policies. We've helped with policies for smoke-free housing, parks, workplaces and campuses. Our online maps help people find apartment homes with policies that limit or prohibit smoking.

Tuberculosis incidence rates (per 100,000), 2008-2017

Tuberculosis Incidence Rates 2008 to 2017

Tuberculosis control

Controlling tuberculosis is one of the key functions of public health. This mission goes back to our roots. In 1913, the first public health nurse in Snohomish County focused on tuberculosis control.

During 2018, the Health District:

  • Treated 41 active tuberculosis cases
  • Performed 643 TB blood tests
  • Performed 132 TB skin tests.

Cancer prevention

Health District staff have presented to more than 30 dental providers about cancers of the mouth and throat. About 70 percent these cancer cases are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).

Dentists are key to oral cancer prevention because they have the opportunity to connect with families and encourage vaccination against HPV for children and teens. 

District staff answers questions about the vaccine and HPV-related cancers, and provides guidance in how to share this information with patients.

Healthy starts

One crucial step toward healthier communities is ensuring healthy beginnings for babies and children. During 2018, the Snohomish Health District:

Fruits and vegetablesHelped 1,090 babies get off to a good start through the WIC Nutrition Program, and provided $25,600 for families to buy fresh fruits and vegetables at local farmers markets.

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Put on 23 trainings, presentations, movie screenings, and discussions on the topics of childhood trauma and resilience.


Kids playing at school


Provided six summer programs at Hawthorne and Sultan elementary schools focused on healthy eating and physical activity.