HHS Cuts Vital Smoking Cessation Programs: What This Means for Public Health

Smoking rates in the U.S. have reached historic lows, with fewer deaths from tobacco-related lung cancer, thanks to substantial investments in research and effective anti-smoking campaigns. However, public health leaders expressed alarm this week as the Department of Health and Human Services dismantled key groups instrumental in these successes. These agencies tracked youth smoking and the rising popularity of nicotine pouches among teens.

The CDC’s Office on Smoking and Health, vital for investigating lung injury outbreaks tied to vaping, suffered severe cuts, affecting crucial tobacco control efforts. As the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products lost staff, including its director, concerns grew regarding the future of tobacco research and cessation initiatives. Experts warn that without continued support, tobacco use among youths may rise, jeopardizing years of progress.

Dr. Tom Frieden, former CDC director, labeled the cuts a “gift to Big Tobacco,” which could reverse advancements in public health campaigns like “Tips from Former Smokers.” These impactful ads, launched in 2012, encouraged over 2 million smokers to seek help quitting.

With uncertainty looming over the continuation of the National Youth Tobacco Survey—critical for identifying trends that could impact public health—the concern is palpable. Experts fear these changes could lead to an uptick in smoking and preventable deaths, signaling a potential public health crisis.