As the back-to-school season approaches, the New York State (NYS) Quitline is urging young adults in Queens to steer clear of tobacco products. With the stress of returning to school, many students might be tempted to use tobacco as a coping mechanism. However, the NYS Quitline, along with medical experts, emphasizes the harmful effects of smoking and vaping, particularly on young adults whose brains are still developing. This initiative aims to educate and support students in making healthier choices.
The Dangers of Tobacco Use
Tobacco use among young adults remains a significant concern. In Queens alone, there were 116,000 adults smoking cigarettes and 98,000 using e-cigarettes in 2022. The NYS Quitline highlights that many young adults entering college are unaware of the severe health risks associated with tobacco and nicotine products. Nurse practitioner Sarah Townley notes that college students often view these products as stress-relievers, which can lead to addiction.
The NYS Quitline, in collaboration with healthcare professionals, is working to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use. They emphasize that newer nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, are highly addictive and can stunt brain development. The National Institute of Mental Health confirms that the adult brain continues to develop into the mid-20s, making young adults particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of nicotine.
Efforts to educate young adults about these risks are crucial. By providing accurate information and resources, the NYS Quitline aims to prevent the initiation of tobacco use and support those who are already struggling with addiction.
Support and Resources Available
The NYS Quitline offers a variety of resources to help young adults quit tobacco. One of the key initiatives is the “This is Quitting” texting program, which provides age-appropriate support and motivation. Young adults can text DROPTHEVAPE to 88709 to receive interactive daily messages tailored to their quit date. This program is designed to help individuals quit vaping and smoking by offering practical advice and encouragement.
In addition to the texting program, the NYS Quitline provides access to quit coaches who offer personalized support. These coaches are available to speak with individuals any day of the week and can provide free stop-smoking medications, such as nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges. The goal is to empower young adults to overcome their addiction and lead healthier lives.
Healthcare professionals and educators across New York City are also playing a vital role in this effort. They are working to create a supportive environment for students, offering guidance and resources to help them quit tobacco. By addressing the issue on multiple fronts, the NYS Quitline and its partners aim to reduce tobacco use among young adults significantly.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention is key to preventing long-term tobacco addiction. Kristen Corcoran, a registered nurse and health educator, emphasizes the importance of addressing tobacco use among college students quickly. Many students have already experienced severe effects of nicotine addiction, making it critical to provide help as soon as possible.
The NYS Quitline encourages parents and guardians to talk to their children about the dangers of tobacco use. The NYC Department of Health offers a coaching guide titled “How to Talk with Your Children About Tobacco and E-Cigarettes,” which provides valuable insights for preventing addiction. By fostering open communication and providing support, parents can play a crucial role in helping their children avoid tobacco.
The back-to-school season is an opportune time to educate young adults about the risks of tobacco use and the resources available to help them quit. The NYS Quitline’s comprehensive approach, combining education, support, and early intervention, aims to create a tobacco-free future for the youth of Queens.
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