Tobacco/Smoking/Vaping
Helping Our Community Live Tobacco-Free
The Niagara County Department of Health is committed to preventing and reducing the health risks associated with tobacco use. Through education, prevention, cessation resources, and community partnership, we work to prevent tobacco use, reduce tobacco-related harms, and promote healthier communities. The goal of our efforts is to promote a healthy lifestyle, prevent youth tobacco use and create healthier environments for everyone in our county.
Negative Health Effects of Tobacco Use
Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of disease and death in the U.S. (1) It is linked to heart disease, cancer, stroke, lung disease, and type 2 diabetes. Tobacco and vaping products contain toxic chemicals that can damage nearly every organ in the body. (2)
Adolescent Tobacco Use Prevention Act (ATUPA)
The Niagara County Department of Health (NCDOH) enforces Article 13-F of the NYS Public Health Law, also known as the Adolescent Tobacco-Use Prevention Act (ATUPA). This law regulates the sale of tobacco and vapor products to individuals under the age of 21. All licensed tobacco retailers in the county are assessed to ensure compliance with the New York State Public Health Law.
To learn more about all NYS Tobacco Control Laws, visit: https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/tobacco_control/current_policies.htm
Educational Programs
The Niagara County Department of Health offers educational sessions to address youth vaping by increasing awareness of vaping risks, nicotine addiction, refusal skills, and cessation resources while reducing intentions and rates of vaping.
For more information, please visit our Vaping Prevention, Education and Support webpage.
Resources
If you or someone you know would like assistance with reducing use or quitting tobacco-related products, free and confidential resources are available.
The CDC provides various quitlines available in multiple languages, texting messaging support, and web-based support for anyone looking for assistance.
- Smokefree.gov - Quit Smoking or Vaping Today – We Can Help | Smokefree
Smokefree provides a personalized quit plan, smokefree texting program, information about nicotine replacement therapy and access to the Smokefree App.
- Way to Quit - Free & Confidential Tools to Quit Tobacco - Way to Quit
Way to Quit provides information on quitting tips, how to avoid cravings and triggers, how to manage withdrawal/relapse and also how to help someone else quit.
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