New York State landmarks will be illuminated in purple on November 21 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the New York State Department of Health’s Tobacco Control Program. The event takes place following the Great American Smokeout and highlights New York’s efforts to reduce tobacco-related disease and death, as well as its support for residents who want to quit smoking.
“New York is a national leader in reducing tobacco use and supporting New Yorkers on their journey to quit,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “While we celebrate 25 years of progress, our work continues to ensure everyone can live smoke-free.”
The Tobacco Control Program was established under New York State Public Health Law in 2000. Since then, it has built a public health infrastructure aimed at preventing tobacco use, reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, and helping people quit tobacco products.
According to state data, for every dollar spent on tobacco control programs in New York, an estimated fifteen dollars are saved in healthcare costs.
Although there have been significant reductions in smoking-related deaths and diseases, tobacco remains a major public health concern both statewide and nationally. Cigarette smoking among youth has nearly disappeared; however, about one in six high school students in New York still report using some form of tobacco product. This is mainly due to e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and other products that appeal to young people. These items are highly addictive and often first used during adolescence.
The Department supports ongoing efforts at both the community and state levels through educational campaigns, treatment interventions for tobacco use, local programming, and coordinated action across regions. Programs such as Advancing Tobacco-Free Communities focus on local prevention initiatives while Health Systems for Tobacco-Free New York assists healthcare providers with addressing tobacco use during patient care visits.
The New York State Quitline offers free coaching services, nicotine-replacement therapy, and support via phone or digital messaging for those seeking help quitting tobacco. A new text-based program called DropTheVape was recently introduced by the Quitline specifically to assist young people with stopping vaping.
State officials emphasize that comprehensive approaches over the past 25 years have proven effective against tobacco use. As new nicotine products become available and industry tactics change, the Department states its commitment remains strong toward protecting public health throughout New York.
