#United States #New York #Smoking Cessation #Global Action #Phoenix House

New Global Action Grant for Smoking Cessation

Global Action to End Smoking has recently launched an initiative aimed at smoking cessation and harm reduction among individuals suffering from substance use disorders. This initiative supports Phoenix Houses of Long Island, a nonprofit organization focused on providing comprehensive care for people grappling with addiction and co-occurring mental health issues.

The grant, which commenced in October 2026, will facilitate smoking cessation and tobacco harm reduction education not only for the staff but also for clients participating in addiction and mental health programs. This program is particularly tailored for veterans, a demographic that exhibits higher smoking rates.

Dr. Kristine Torres-Lockhart, Chief Medical Officer of Phoenix House, highlighted the pressing reality that people with substance use disorders, including veterans, tend to smoke at elevated rates compared to the general population. She emphasized that implementing this program is crucial for reducing smoking prevalence and providing support systems for both clients and staff.

The initiative will unfold in two main phases over an 18-month period. Phase one involves approximately 150 staff members undergoing three educational workshops covering cessation and harm reduction strategies. Phase two will extend the same educational resources to 200 clients within Phoenix House's facilities across New York City and Long Island.

Notably, each phase will include targeted workshops specifically designed for military veterans at the organization’s Lake Ronkonkoma Residential Facility, which specializes in treating former service members dealing with substance use disorders. This focused approach reflects a growing recognition of the specific challenges faced by veterans in the context of smoking and mental health.

Heidi B. Goldstein, President and Chief Legal Officer of Global Action to End Smoking, expressed enthusiasm for the project, remarking on its innovative twin-pronged approach to tackling smoking cessation. The initiative not only empowers individuals to quit smoking but also actively educates them about both traditional and emerging cessation tools.

Success metrics for the program will encompass participant enrollment, workshop engagement levels, cigarette use reduction rates, and the number of individuals transitioning to reduced-risk nicotine products or achieving full cessation. Global Action aims to further its mission of ending combustible tobacco use, which remains a leading preventable cause of death globally.

Understanding Smoking Cessation

When it comes to quitting smoking, individuals may find various methods effective. From nicotine replacements like patches and gums to counseling support, the paths to cessation are diverse. Global health authorities advocate for these recognized cessation aids but acknowledge that many smokers still find quitting challenging. Thus, tobacco harm reduction methods have gained traction as viable alternatives for those who find conventional cessation strategies ineffective.

Are E-Cigarettes a Safe Option?

E-cigarettes are often viewed as a less harmful alternative to traditional smoking since they involve heating nicotine, not burning it, and emit fewer harmful chemicals compared to combustible tobacco. However, it is crucial to note that while e-cigarettes may carry lower risks, they aren't devoid of health concerns, particularly for individuals unfamiliar with nicotine.

Safety of Nicotine Pouches

Nicotine pouches, which contain nicotine and flavorings but lack tobacco, are recognized by health authorities as significantly safer compared to cigarettes. Nevertheless, their use carries risks, and they are not completely risk-free.

About Global Action to End Smoking

Global Action to End Smoking is a charitable organization focused on eradicating combustible tobacco use worldwide. Through grant-making initiatives, it supports adults on their cessation journeys, respecting the unique experiences and challenges each individual faces. By empowering communities through education and resources, Global Action reinforces its commitment to public health and wellness.