The New York State Department of Health has reported a continued decline in tobacco use among high school students, reaching the lowest levels ever recorded in the state. The findings come from the department’s latest Tobacco Control Program StatShot report, which draws 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 youth, more than 1.4 million adults in New York still smoke, and disparities persist across communities. The department notes that new products such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches are increasingly popular with young people due to their flavors and targeted marketing, raising concerns about nicotine addiction rates. Officials also warn that recent reductions in federal funding for tobacco prevention could threaten gains made over past decades.
New York’s Tobacco Control Program uses a comprehensive approach including media campaigns, treatment interventions, community programming, and policy advocacy. The state has implemented measures such as raising the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products, banning flavored e-cigarettes and menthol products, prohibiting price discounting of tobacco items, and introducing local regulations against smoking in multiunit housing and public spaces.
Community grantees receive support through initiatives like Advancing Tobacco-Free Communities and Health Systems for Tobacco-Free New York. Media campaigns aim to increase awareness about tobacco risks and available resources for quitting.
The department’s Quitline service offers free confidential help—including counseling in English and Spanish as well as free nicotine replacement therapies—to those trying to quit smoking. Over one million people have used this service so far. To address youth vaping specifically, a new text-based program called DropTheVape provides daily messages and interactive exercises designed to help young people stop using vapes, pouches, or cigarettes.
