STORIES 

The New York City Health Department regularly fields questions from the community about data around tobacco use, in general, and within certain communities. In the fall of 2021, the Health Department received a request from the AICAS partnership for disaggregated data about smoking within different Asian communities. They were able to produce a slide deck that analyzed smoking by race/ethnicity, but also gender and nativity. It also included tobacco treatment use by race/ethnicity.

Not only did this request ensure that AICAS members had access to the disaggregated data they needed to support their work, it also facilitated new analyses for other demographic groups. Key analyses were ultimately shared in a NYC Vital Signs report in 2022: Addressing New York City’s Smoking Inequities Vital Signs.

Additionally, the data helped to inform planning around other Health Department activities. The Health Department has since provided regular trainings and resources to Asian-serving healthcare professionals who are part of Chinese American Medical Society (CAMS) and Coalition of Asian-American Independent Practice Associations (CAIPA). Additionally, the Health Department produced and placed the Lighting Up media campaign focused on Chinese men, with guidance from Charles B. Wang Community Health Center. Beyond these specific efforts, the Health Department ensures all core public-facing educational materials are available in Chinese and that the materials promote more tailored resources, like the Asian Smokers’ Quitline.

From November 2024 to January 2025, AICAS partners promoted the Resource Repository, which houses resources to support efforts to prevent, reduce or quit smoking. The Repository is designed for community-based organizations, healthcare providers, policymakers, researchers, and community members looking to better understand tobacco prevention and treatment that are evidence-based and effective. Most of AICAS partners were able to promote through their organization's digital newsletters and social media.

Promotional Platforms

• Our first wave of promotion consists of social media posts from Immigrant Social Service, Charles B. Wang Community Health Center and NYU Langone Health Community Service Plan.

• In honor of National Smoking Cessation Awareness Month, Chinatown 360 posted on their Instagram account, with ISS tagged.

• On 11/21 (Great American Smoke Out Day/GASO), CBWCHC posted on their Instagram and Facebook account to spread awareness on GASO to encourage people who smoke to take the first step toward a healthier, smoke-free life.

• NYULH CSP posted on X through NYULH’s Population Health. 

• New York City Treats Tobacco featured the Repository as a "Resource Highlight" in their digital newsletter.

Members of the Asian American for Equality (AAFE) participated at an event at the Brooklyn Library for The Great American Smokeout on November 20, 2024.  AAFE staff promoted their tobacco cessation program, which gives assistance and support to community members who wish to quit smoking.