Tuscany launches updated smoking‑cessation program to curb rising tobacco use

The Regional Council of Tuscany approved new guidelines and a revised Diagnostic‑Therapeutic Assistance Pathway (PDTA) for dependence on tobacco and nicotine‑containing products. The measures adopt the latest WHO and ISS recommendations and aim to provide uniform, timely care across the region by strengthening the network of anti‑smoking centres.

The programme introduces systematic recording of smoking status in health records, expands telemedicine tools, and offers free three‑month treatment cycles that combine counseling, psychological support, carbon‑monoxide monitoring, pharmacotherapy and follow‑up at six and twelve months. It targets the 23.8% of Tuscan residents who smoke—predominantly men aged 25‑34 and individuals with lower income or education.

Regional President Eugenio Giani emphasized that preventing smoking saves lives, while Health Assessor Monia Monni highlighted the need for scientifically validated, coordinated assistance to help people quit.