Westchester Reporter

This fall, the Westchester County Health Department is collaborating with community partners to offer free smoking cessation programs. The initiative includes a seven-week program called "Freedom from Smoking," developed by the American Lung Association, available in Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, White Plains, and Yonkers.

Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler emphasized the importance of these programs: “With free programs, nicotine patches and community support available at convenient locations throughout Westchester, now is the right time to quit. Go online or call today so you can breathe easier and take charge of your health.”

The dangers of smoking are well-documented. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, smoking results in 480,000 deaths annually in the United States. It remains the leading cause of preventable death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that lung cancer, strongly associated with smoking, claims more lives than any other cancer.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer addressed the impact of nicotine addiction: “Addiction to nicotine products has cut short numerous lives to lung disease, heart disease and related illnesses; has robbed otherwise healthy individuals of their good health; has robbed families of fathers, mothers, siblings and other loved ones prematurely. That is why we are tackling the issue head on with Westchester Tobacco Free, a robust education and enforcement program.”

Additional resources for quitting smoking include subscribing to My Westchester's weekly email newsletter.