© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

MI Smoking Rate Down, Still Higher Than National Figures

Cigarettes on ash tray

On the heels of a recent report that smoking rates in the U.S. have hit a record low, health officials and the American Cancer Society are hoping today’s Great American Smokeout will drive the numbers even lower.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the adult smoking rate fell from 15.5 percent to 14 percent last year.

Karen Brown, a public health consultant for the state Department of Health and Human Services tobacco control program, says the smoking rate in Michigan of 20.4 percent, while higher than the nation rate, is falling. “In 2011," Brown says, "we had a 23.3 percent smoking rate, so we have dropped significantly just in the past few years.”

Brown says vaping is included with tobacco products in those figures, saying “the CDC is reporting that vape use, e-cigarettes, are at about 2.8 percent. Here in Michigan, that’s closer to five percent.”

On this Great American Smokeout day, the Michigan Tobacco Quitline for help is 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

Scott Pohl has maintained an on-call schedule reporting for WKAR following his retirement after 36 years on the air at the station.
As Election Day draws closer, ensure WKAR continues to provide the in-depth coverage of races, topics, and issues important to mid-Michigan. Your gift, no matter the size, supports critical analysis and diverse perspectives you need before heading to the polls. Donate today to keep these essential stories accessible to everyone.