LETTER: Holiday season reminder about tobacco and vaping
Summary
The letter highlights the ongoing concern of tobacco and vaping use in New York, particularly during the holiday season. It notes that 1.5 million adults in New York smoke cigarettes, and approximately 13% of high school students vape. The author emphasizes that indoor gatherings increase exposure to secondhand smoke and that flavored e-cigarettes are a common entry point to nicotine addiction for teens. The letter encourages individuals to take small actions like stepping outside to smoke, establishing tobacco-free homes, and having conversations with young people about the risks of tobacco. Resources like the New York State Smokers’ Quitline (1-866-NY-QUITS) and the DROPTHEVAPE text service (88709) are provided for those seeking help to quit.
(Source:Finger Lakes Times)