The New York State Department of Health has reported a continued decline in tobacco use among high school students, reaching the lowest level ever recorded in the state. The findings come from the latest Tobacco Control Program StatShot report, which is based on data from the New York Youth Tobacco Survey.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald commented on the results: “The decline in tobacco use among our youth represents a major public health achievement and underscores the power of strong tobacco control policies and prevention efforts. While youth tobacco use has reached record lows, far too many young people continue to use these harmful products. We remain committed to taking action that drives these numbers even lower and protects the health and well-being of our youth.”
Despite progress among young people, tobacco remains a significant health issue in New York. Over 1.4 million adults in the state still smoke, and there are ongoing disparities in tobacco use across different communities. E-cigarettes and nicotine pouches have become increasingly popular with youth, often marketed with flavors that appeal to younger users. These trends present new challenges for public health officials working to reduce nicotine addiction.
Recent reductions in federal funding for tobacco prevention programs could threaten advances made over recent decades.
The state’s Tobacco Control Program includes a range of strategies such as media campaigns, treatment interventions, community programming, and policy initiatives aimed at promoting tobacco-free norms. New York has implemented several key policies in recent years: raising the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products, banning flavored e-cigarettes and nicotine vapor products (including menthol), and prohibiting price discounting on tobacco products. Local regulations have also been adopted to restrict smoking and e-cigarette use in multiunit housing and public spaces, as well as regulating retail locations selling these products.
To further support smoke-free living across all communities, the program funds local organizations through its Advancing Tobacco-Free Communities and Health Systems for Tobacco-Free New York initiatives. Statewide media campaigns are used to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco and e-cigarette use while providing resources for quitting.
The New York State Quitline offers free services including information, coaching, support in English and Spanish, and access to nicotine replacement therapies like patches or gum. The Quitline has assisted more than one million individuals seeking to quit smoking.
In response to rising youth vaping rates, a new text-based program called DropTheVape was launched by the Quitline. This confidential service aims to help young people stop using vapes, pouches, cigarettes, or other tobacco products by providing daily messages and interactive exercises focused on managing cravings and stress. Young people can sign up at DropTheVape.org.
