Work still needed to reduce tobacco use among some groups

For Antigo Times

New data show that statewide efforts to reduce smoking rates are paying off, with the state’s smoking rate falling to 16% in 2017 after several years at 17%, according to the Department of Health Services’ Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey (BRFSS). One of the biggest reductions is among those aged 35-44, down to 19% in 2017 from 24% in 2016. There are also signs that smoking rates may be starting to fall for some groups that have higher rates, including African Americans and people who are on Medicaid.

“The hard work by community organizations, health educators, families and young people to provide information about the dangers of smoking, and programs available to help people quit, is making a difference, said State Health Officer Karen McKeown. “We are grateful to all Wisconsin citizens who are helping to reduce tobacco use statewide.”