Suffolk Reporter

The Suffolk County Department of Health is encouraging residents to seek help in overcoming tobacco addiction, as reported by the department itself. With a focus on providing comprehensive support, the county's evidence-based tobacco cessation program addresses the various aspects of tobacco use, including physical, emotional, and habitual components, while offering behavioral modification and supportive pharmaceuticals.

Since its establishment in 2000, over 20,000 individuals have taken part in the Learn to Be …Tobacco Free cessation program, highlighting the program's impact and reach within the community. Suffolk County boasts one of the lowest smoking rates among New York State counties, with a prevalence of 9.4%, in contrast to the statewide smoking prevalence rate of 12.0% in 2021.

Residents interested in participating in the upcoming classes can take note of the following schedule: Classes in Shoreham and Coram are set to commence in early May, with sessions on Thursdays at the North Shore Public Library in Shoreham and on Tuesdays at the Sun River Health Center in Coram. For those in Huntington and Riverhead, classes will begin in July at the Huntington Public Library and Riverhead Free Library, respectively.

Pre-registration is mandatory for all classes, with registration open until the second session of each course. Those looking to register can reach out to Debora at 631-853-2928 or Debora.Rippel@suffolkcountyny.gov.

For further information and updates, individuals are encouraged to follow the Suffolk County Department of Health on their website, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages.