March marks Vaping Awareness Month, and the New York State Quitline is using the occasion to spotlight the health risks of electronic cigarettes while encouraging residents to take advantage of free quitting resources.
Health experts warn that most vape products contain toxic chemicals and high levels of nicotine that can damage the brain and lungs and lead to addiction, particularly among youth and young adults.
Participants in Quitline programs frequently report side effects such as difficulty breathing, reduced focus and impulse control, and symptoms of depression linked to vaping.
To meet the growing need for support, the NYS Quitline has expanded its services in recent years.
In 2019, it became one of the first state quitlines in the nation to offer nicotine replacement therapy to individuals seeking to quit vaping. In 2025, it launched DropTheVape, a free and confidential six-week texting program designed specifically for youth and young adults.
The program provides practical, skill-building tools to help participants quit successfully.
In its annual “Success Stories” roundup in January, the Quitline highlighted two Manhattan women who overcame vaping addiction with the help of coaching and nicotine patches and lozenges. Both had switched from cigarettes to vapes in their early 20s but found themselves dependent on the new products.
“The Quit Coach helped me visualize my life without vapes,” said Diara S., who credited follow-up calls with keeping her on track.
Julia B. said vaping took a toll on her endurance. “My breathing hurt during long runs. Now I feel so much better mentally and physically. It’s a different world.”
New Yorkers seeking help can call 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487), visit nysmokefree.com, or access text-based support by texting QUITNOW or DÉJELO YA NY to 333888.