Opinion: From habit to health – new paths forward for veterans who smoke
September 18, 2026 by linknky.com
Opinion: From habit to health – new paths forward for veterans who smoke
Veterans who smoke need support that recognises habit, stress, trauma and dependence rather than reducing quitting to willpower. Many have tried to stop before, and some may need lower-risk nicotine options that meet them where they are. Harm reduction can create a more realistic path from habit to health by reducing exposure to combustion while keeping people engaged in care. Better cessation support should be practical, respectful and tailored to the lives of those it aims to help.
14.10% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 39.8 million current smokers in United States 17.10% of men are current smokers but only 11.10% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR