New York State Tobacco Control Program marks 25 years

Landmarks across the state lit up purple in honor of the 25th anniversary of the New York State Tobacco Control Program.

Some of the accomplishments in that time include a new record low smoking rate for young people and a near 50% decrease in New York’s lung cancer rates.

It’s also helped save thousands of New Yorkers’ lives and saved them in health care costs. 

There is also the New York State Quitline.

“Since its inception, we had more than 2 million phone calls and we’re approaching 1 million people who have quit successfully,” Andrew Hyland, chair of the Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, said.

To reach the NYS Quitline, call 1-866-NY-QUITS, or text QUITNOW to 333888.