By Brielle Carnright
Tobacco Project Coordinator
As pride month continues on, The Heart Network and North Country Nicotine Consultants wish to draw attention to health disparities among LBGTQ+ people caused by tobacco and the tobacco industry.
The most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention shows that use of any tobacco product — cigarettes, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco and more — is higher among lesbian, gay or bisexual adults when compared to heterosexual/straight adults: 25.1 percent to 18.8 percent. Additionally, the CDC study shows that transgender adults are more likely to use commercial tobacco products than cisgender adults. The data on LBGTQ+ adults also correlates to high school students.
This data matters because it represents another example of big tobacco targeting vulnerable populations with their dangerous products. Tobacco companies have already been exposed for marketing to impressionable youth and to communities of color, as well as low-income communities. Marketing to LBGTQ+ people takes many forms, the most prevalent being the heavy placement of advertisements in publications with gay and lesbian readers. The CDC also notes that tobacco companies have spent millions donating to and sponsoring LBGTQ+ organizations, pride parades and community events.
LBGTQ+ tobacco users looking to quit can turn to the New York State Smokers’ Quitline for help. All New York State residents can call 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487) or text QUITNOW to 333888 for coaching and resources, free of charge, seven days a week beginning at 9 a.m. Visit www.nysmokefree.com for more information.
We also encourage folks to talk with their providers. Data overwhelmingly shows that just five minutes of counseling with your doctor can dramatically increase a person’s chance of quitting successfully. Providers across the North Country have increased their capacity to provide this sort of counseling through The Heart Network’s partnership with Glens Falls Hospital — North Country Nicotine Consultants — which provides resources and consultation to health care providers to help increase delivery of comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for nicotine addiction. These services are made possible thanks to a Health Systems for a Tobacco Free New York grant through the New York State Department of Health.
Pride month is a time to celebrate LBGTQ+ people, but also serves as an opportunity to draw attention to the multitude of disparities these communities face — especially health disparities. Big tobacco needs to be held accountable for its continued targeting of marginalized individuals and families.
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