On November 20, 2025, Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) is encouraging residents of Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County to participate in the Great American Smokeout. The event asks people to quit tobacco and nicotine for at least one day. Its goal is to raise awareness about the health risks of smoking, vaping, and using other nicotine products, including nicotine pouches.
Recent data shows that 6 percent of adults in Washoe County smoke regularly. In addition, 4 percent of middle school students and 1 percent of high school students reported using e-cigarettes in the past month. These numbers show the need for ongoing prevention and cessation programs in the area.
NNPH officials, including Nancy Diao, Division Director of Population Health, state that tobacco and nicotine use are major causes of preventable disease and death in the United States. These products are linked to chronic illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The use of flavored nicotine pouches among youth is increasing. The FDA has not approved these products as safe or effective for quitting smoking…