Category Archives: Press Releases

Local youth leaders mobilize against tobacco marketing at statewide summit

Despite progress, more than 1 in 10 New York high school youth still use e-cigarettes TOBACCO-FREE CNY, JULY 21, 2026 – Despite significant progress in reducing youth vaping in New York, more than one in 10 high school students still use e-cigarettes, and nicotine pouch use is rising in popularity. As manipulative tobacco marketing continues… Read more >

New York Expands Tobacco Tax to Include Nicotine Pouches

TOBACCO-FREE CNY, JULY 8, 2026 – Tobacco-Free CNY, a partner in the New York State Tobacco Control Program, applauds the passage of the FY 2027 Executive Budget, which closes a loophole by including nicotine pouches in the definition of taxable tobacco products. This evidence-based policy win is a significant step forward in protecting New Yorkers,… Read more >

Stay Safe This Holiday Weekend: Tick, Mosquito & Heat Precautions

ONONDAGA COUNTY, JULY 2, 2026 – With the upcoming holiday weekend and the high temperatures in Central New York, Onondaga County Health Department urges all residents to take proactive measures to protect against tick and mosquito bites and extreme heat. While spending time outdoors is encouraged, it’s important to keep in mind that ticks, mosquitoes,… Read more >

Free Colorectal Cancer Screenings Offered During Men’s Health Month

ONONDAGA COUNTY, JUNE 1, 2026 – June is National Men’s Health Awareness Month—a perfect time to shine a light on a critical health issue: colorectal cancer in men. According to the American Cancer Society, men are expected to account for approximately 55,410 new colon cancer cases and 28,750 rectal cancer cases in 2026, totaling around… Read more >

No Menthol Sunday: We are the movement against big tobacco

TOBACCO-FREE CNY, MAY 12, 2026 – No Menthol Sunday is a national initiative created by Center for Black Health and Health Equity to raise awareness about the harmful impact of menthol tobacco and its disproportionate effect on Black and African American communities. The initiative serves as a call to action to address targeted marketing practices… Read more >

Reality Check Youth Take Tobacco Industry Fight to State Capitol

Youth meet with Sen. May, Assemblymembers Magnarelli, Stirpe, Lemondes, and Hunter TOBACCO-FREE CNY, MARCH 4, 2026 – Every year in mid-February, Reality Check youth from around New York State gather in Albany with a common purpose: speaking with legislators on the dangers of tobacco and sharing the success of the New York State Tobacco Control… Read more >

Colorectal Cancer Screening Begins at age 45: Free Screening Tests Available

ONONDAGA COUNTY, MARCH 2, 2026 – March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer among both men and women in the United States, and more than 52,000 people die from the disease each year. National and New York State data indicate… Read more >

Onondaga County Health Department Releases 2025-2027 Community Health Assessment and Improvement Plan

ONONDAGA COUNTY, JANUARY 21, 2026 – The Onondaga County Health Department is pleased to announce the publication of the 2025-2027 Onondaga County Community Health Assessment and Improvement Plan. The Community Health Assessment provides an overview of demographic and health indicator data, determinants of health, current health challenges, and community assets and resources. The Community Health… Read more >

January Is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Free Screening Services Available in Onondaga County

ONONDAGA COUNTY, DECEMBER 31, 2025 – January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. The Cancer Services Program is reminding people with a cervix age 21 and older to get screened for cervical cancer. Cervical cancer occurs most often in people over the age of 30. Unlike many cancers, cervical cancer can be prevented with the… Read more >