CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems at St. Joseph’s Health Supports Surgeon General’s Call to Address Tobacco Disparities

SYRACUSE, N.Y.— The CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems at St. Joseph’s Health welcomes the findings of the newly released Surgeon General’s report, Eliminating Tobacco-Related Disease and Death: Addressing Disparities, which highlights the persistent disparities in tobacco use, secondhand smoke exposure, and tobacco-related health outcomes. The report serves as a critical call to action for communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers to address these inequities and work toward a future where no lives are lost to commercial tobacco use.

“This report is a wake-up call. Tobacco use continues to hit certain communities harder than others, and we see it every day,” said Kristen Richardson, RN, CTTS, Director of the CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems at St. Joseph’s Health. “Low-income communities, people of color, and those with behavioral health conditions face disproportionate risks, and that’s simply not fair. We need to step up and make sure everyone has access to the support and resources they need to quit and stay tobacco-free.”

The report outlines key strategies for reducing tobacco-related disparities, including strengthening tobacco control policies, expanding access to cessation resources, and addressing targeted tobacco marketing that disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations.

As part of its commitment to reducing tobacco-related harm, the CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems continues to work with healthcare organizations, community partners, and policymakers to integrate tobacco treatment into healthcare systems and advance policies that promote health equity.

“We know what works—comprehensive tobacco control measures save lives,” added Richardson. “Now, we must act with urgency to ensure that all communities benefit from these proven strategies. Together, we can create a future where no one suffers from the preventable harms of commercial tobacco.”

For those looking to quit smoking or vaping, free resources and support are available through the New York State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487) or www.nysmokefree.com.