Tobacco and Nicotine

November is Lung Cancer Awareness month, so let’s take some time to discuss one of the leading causes of lung cancer: tobacco.

Tobacco is one of the most widely-used substances in the United States. Often, people think about tobacco or nicotine in the form of cigarettes, vapes (or “e-cigarettes”), or chewing tobacco, often shortened to “chew”. You may have also heard of nicotine pouches, such as the brand Zyn.

LGBTQ people tend to have higher rates of using tobacco and nicotine compared to the general population. Approximately 1 in 5 LGBTQ adults smoke cigarettes, compared to 1 in 6 adults in the general population. This number is even higher for transgender adults, with nearly 1 in 3 smoking cigarettes. The general LGBTQ population is 2-3x more likely to use tobacco and nicotine products than their peers. 

We also have data specifically for Cortland County youth. While the general population of youth in the County (grades 7th - 12th) reported that approximately 7% of them vaped nicotine in the last 30 days, this percentage was higher for LGBTQ youth at 17%. 

This considered, LGBTQ people in general, youth included, are at higher risk of developing substance use disorders. Tobacco companies know this, and so some tobacco advertisements specifically target LGBTQ community. This can include printed ads in LGBTQ publications or tobacco companies sponsoring pride festivals. Many LGBTQ people report using tobacco as a stress reliever or distraction from life’s difficulties. However, tobacco research demonstrates that tobacco can often worsen stress and exacerbate common mental health conditions. 

Many people, including youth, also believe that vaping nicotine (e.g. using a JUUL, ELFBAR, Vuse) is safer or healthier than smoking cigarettes. However, vaping nicotine still carries considerable risks. It increases your risk of developing high blood pressure, cardiac issues, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Nicotine hurts the brain development of children and teenagers as well. Finally, it can also contribute to mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, and difficulty sleeping. 

If you are looking to quit using tobacco and/or nicotine, there is help available. 

Quit the Hit provides an online support group for teens to help quit nicotine vaping. Their website is https://rescueagency.com/ready-made/quit-the-hit

Quitting is a free, supportive texting program through the Truth Initiative: Digital Quitting Program

Check out  NY SmokeFree for more resources.