In the year 2000 the smoking rate for high schoolers was 27.1%. Today, in 2021, it’s below 3%.
This includes all tobacco products, like e-cigarettes.
Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker credits the success to the state’s tobacco control program and use of evidence based action.
Much of the drop was due to the age changing from 18 to 21 to legally purchase tobacco products in 2019.
Pharmacies stopped selling tobacco as well as stores ending the use of coupons and promotions.
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