For the first time since tracking began, fewer than 10% of New York adults report smoking cigarettes, down from 25% in 2000, according to state health data.
Health advocates praised the milestone as a public health victory but warned that recent federal funding cuts could threaten further progress in tobacco cessation efforts. While officials say anti-smoking programs are being streamlined, concerns remain about sustaining momentum.
Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable death in New York, making continued support for cessation resources critical, experts say.
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