Fresh Air: News from Breathe PA | |
New PA Statewide Nicotine Replacement Therapy Guidelines
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Guidance around nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) continues to evolve as we learn more about how people experience nicotine dependence and withdrawal. Recent updates now focus less on how much someone smokes or vapes and more on how strongly their body responds when nicotine is reduced or stopped. These recommendations were highlighted through education provided by the PA Statewide Tobacco-Free Recovery Initiative.
In the past, NRT products such as patches, gum, or lozenges were often recommended based on how many cigarettes a person smoked per day or how soon after waking they used nicotine. Someone who smoked more or used nicotine early in the day typically started on a higher dose. While this approach worked for many people, it did not always account for how differently individuals experience cravings and withdrawal.
Current recommendations now place greater emphasis on the severity and frequency of withdrawal symptoms. Some people may smoke fewer cigarettes or use nicotine less often but still experience intense cravings, irritability, or discomfort when they try to quit. In these situations, a higher dose of NRT may be more helpful, even if overall use appears lower. This updated approach applies to all nicotine products, including cigarettes, vaping devices, and nicotine pouches.
Another update involves how long someone may remain on NRT. Instead of tapering down on a set schedule, individuals are now encouraged to reduce their dose only once cravings and withdrawal symptoms are well controlled. Some people may benefit from staying on higher-dose patches for more extended periods, including 12 weeks or more. This flexible approach helps ensure comfort and increases the likelihood of successfully quitting.
At Breathe PA, we work closely with individuals to find cessation strategies that fit their needs and experiences. For people who vape, gradual reduction is often a helpful starting point. Tracking daily use and slowly reducing intake can make the transition to NRT more manageable, especially since some vaping products contain very high levels of nicotine. In certain situations, prescription medications may also be recommended by a healthcare provider to support withdrawal and long-term success.
Education and support remain key components of tobacco and nicotine cessation. Ongoing training and updated guidance help ensure that people receive responsive, personalized care grounded in the latest evidence. For more information about tobacco cessation education and resources, click the button below.
| | | | Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, Breathe PA raised $3,570 on Giving Tuesday, December 2nd, surpassing our original goal! Every dollar raised helps us continue providing vital education, prevention, and support services that improve lung health across our communities. We are grateful to those who donated, shared, and supported our mission. Your commitment truly makes a difference. | | First Annual Director’s Award Recipient: Kristy Steele | | |
Leadership and passion are just a few words to describe Breathe PA’s Lung Health Program Manager, Kristy Steele. In July, Breathe PA recognized Kristy as the organization’s inaugural Director’s Award recipient for her outstanding leadership, dedication, and continued commitment to the people we serve. In her role as Lung Health Program Manager, Kristy administers Breathe PA’s adult lung health programs and patient assistance program, providing education to patients, caregivers, and healthcare workers. Kristy has a bachelor's degree and is a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) and Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist (CTTS).
Since Kristy joined our team, the Lung Health Program has truly come back to life.
| | Award recipient Kristy Steele, Lung Health Program Manager holding her award with Casey Monroe, Executive Director. | | |
Her leadership has helped us grow, build stronger partnerships, and enhance our support for patients across the region. One of her most significant accomplishments has been launching our online application and creating a strong referral network—now working with over 20 facilities. She has established new relationships with pulmonary rehab centers, such as IRMC and St. Clair, enabling us to reach more patients who require support with pulmonary rehab reimbursement. That’s no small task, Kristy worked closely with respiratory therapists and administrators to determine how to establish the program, manage reimbursement, and still deliver high-quality, in-person care.
She’s also been a steady presence, providing ongoing education, training, and support to patients and professionals alike.
We’re proud to celebrate Kristy for all she’s done and continues to do to strengthen our programs, support our team and partners, and help the people we serve.
| | In partnership with The Hill Group, Breathe PA’s Strategic Planning Committee launched a five-year Strategic Plan in July 2025. Board Members, Dannai Wilson, Gary Rick, and Ross Chambers partnered with Breathe PA’s Executive Director, Casey Monroe, and Director of Programs, Becky Kishlock, to develop a comprehensive road map for the next five years. With extensive input and feedback from staff and the board at large, Breathe PA’s Strategic Plan is an all-hands-on-deck operation. The plan outlines priority focus areas including program growth, sustainability, and strengthened partnerships. This shared roadmap will guide Breathe PA’s work and impact across Pennsylvania in the years ahead. | | Breathe PA at World COPD Day in Washington, DC | | |
On November 19, in recognition of World COPD Day, members of the COPD Action Alliance traveled to Washington, D.C., for an advocacy fly-in to elevate the voices of people living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The fly-in provided advocates with an opportunity to meet directly with members of Congress and highlight the ongoing needs of individuals and families affected by COPD.
Breathe PA was proud to be represented by Kristy Steele, Lung Health Program Manager, who joined advocates from across the country in discussions centered on advancing COPD-related policy, supporting critical federal Appropriations legislation, and strengthening bipartisan leadership within the COPD Congressional Caucus. These conversations emphasized the importance of continued investment in research, education, and access to care for those living with chronic lung disease.
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Pictured here from left to right, Joe Morrison,
Co-Founder, Board Member and CEO of Right2Breathe®, Inc, Kristy Steele, Lung Health Program Manager, Justine Sicari, Nurse Practitioner with AHN Pulmonary, Adeela Abbasi, Director of Community Outreach and Health Equity, Allergy and Asthma Network.
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Advocacy efforts like this play an essential role in ensuring that lung health remains a national priority. By sharing real-life experiences and community perspectives, organizations like Breathe PA help inform policy decisions that can lead to better outcomes for patients nationwide.
We are grateful to the COPD Action Alliance and all advocates who dedicated their time and voices on World COPD Day. Their commitment helps drive progress toward improved awareness, stronger policies, and better support for those impacted by COPD.
| | New PA Law Takes Aim at Youth Vaping | | |
A new bipartisan PA law (House Bill 1425) was signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro this month. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than 1.6 million U.S. children use vaping products. This law strengthens oversight of e-cigarette products by cracking down on illegal, unregulated devices that are often marketed to youth. The law creates a state-run list of approved products and gives officials more authority to hold sellers accountable.
At Breathe PA, we know that prevention is key to keeping young people healthy and nicotine-free. Policies like this help reduce access to harmful products and support our shared goal of protecting youth across our communities. Prevention matters.
| | Jessica Schuman, Asthma Program Manager instructing students on asthma symptoms. | | Presentation at Child Care Health Roundtable Hosted by Early Childhood Education Linkage System | Breathe PA participated in a recent Child Care Health Roundtable hosted by the Early Childhood Education Linkage System (ECELS) and the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. ECELS provides health and safety resources and training for childcare providers across Pennsylvania, helping ensure safe, healthy early learning environments. | | |
Jessica Schuman, Asthma Program Manager at Breathe PA, presented to approximately 40 childcare professionals during the virtual session. Her presentation covered asthma basics, recognizing symptoms, prevention strategies, when to call 911, asthma action plans, medication administration, available trainings, and an overview of Breathe PA programs that support children, families, and childcare providers.
The roundtable provided valuable visibility for Breathe PA’s asthma education programming and reinforced the importance of equipping childcare professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to support children with asthma. Engagement opportunities like this help extend Breathe PA’s reach across early childhood settings and strengthen asthma awareness and preparedness throughout Pennsylvania.
| | Tobacco & Nicotine Policy Advancement | | |
Breathe PA continues to make strong progress advancing tobacco- and nicotine-free policies across the Northwest and Southwest regions of Pennsylvania, as well as in Allegheny County. By working directly with local businesses, childcare providers, recreation facilities, and animal care organizations, this policy work supports healthier environments where people live, work, and gather.
In the fall quarter, Breathe PA supported the adoption of five new tobacco-free workplace policies across a range of community settings. These policies reduce exposure to secondhand smoke and aerosol for employees, patrons, and visitors while reinforcing a culture of health and safety.
| | Pictured here from left to right, Cortney Schrecengost, Health Educator, Casey Monroe, Executive Director, and Cat Aranda, Tobacco Program Manager holding Breathe PA's tobacco and nicotine free building signs. | | |
Several of these worksites included veterinary and animal care settings, where tobacco- and nicotine-free policies also help protect pets from accidental exposure to discarded products such as cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and vape cartridges.
In addition, three Young Lungs at Play and Playgrounds for Lung-Air Protection policies were passed during the reporting period. These policies focus on keeping outdoor spaces where children and families spend time free from tobacco and nicotine use, supporting cleaner air, healthier play environments, and positive role modeling for youth.
Policy change remains one of the most effective tools for long-term tobacco prevention. The progress reflected this quarter highlights strong community partnerships and continued momentum toward improving lung health across the regions Breathe PA serves.
| | Welcome Our New Board Members | | We’re thrilled to introduce two new faces to Breathe PA, Jack Ryan and Timothy McKee. They bring a shared passion for healthier lungs and stronger communities across Pennsylvania. We are extremely grateful for the expertise, passion, and nonprofit experience Jack and Tim bring to the team! | |
Jack Ryan
Jack Ryan is the Financial Advisor & Chief Compliance Officer at Henderson Brothers Financial Partners. In addition to his role at Henderson Brothers, Jack has served on several nonprofit boards including Special Olympics, Mainstay Life Services, Waterford,org, Maple United Student Academy (MUSA), and enTRUST Services. His areas of experience include financial planning and estate planning. He studied finance and investment management at Duquesne University.
He received his MBA and JD from the University of Pittsburgh.
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Timothy McKee
Timothy McKee is Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Personal Financial Specialist. Before establishing his own financial planning practice, he worked for S&T Bank in Indiana, Pennsylvania for 29 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting, is a licensed CPA in Ohio and Pennsylvania, and brings an emphasis no tax efficiency to financial planning.
He has a personal connection to Breathe PA's mission, as a few of his close family members, including his mother and grandfather, passed away from pulmonary fibrosis. His interest in lung health has been high ever since living with them and witnessing their health struggles.
| | SAVE THE DATE: Upcoming Events | | Mark your calendars for these upcoming 2026 events. Registration information coming soon! | |
Webinar: The Power of Patient Stories with Sleep Apnea
Thursday, January 29, 2026 | 12 - 1 p.m.
Hear from Emma Cooksey, a writer, speaker, and award-winning patient advocate on her journey with obstructive sleep apnea, as well as various patient testimonials she's gathered through her podcast featured in Project Sleep. Registration is free. Respiratory therapists are eligible for 1 CRCE.
Click here to register.
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2026 Tuberculosis Conference
March 11 - 12, 2026 | 9 - 11 a.m.
Join us for a two-day virtual conference partnering with the PA Department of Health and Rutgers University focused on education, collaboration, and patient-centered perspectives.
Stay tuned, registration coming soon!
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World Tuberculosis Day
March 24, 2026
World Tuberculosis Day is observed every year on March 24 to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB), a serious infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs. The day highlights the global effort to prevent, diagnose, and treat TB, reduce stigma, and remember that TB is preventable and curable, yet still impacts millions of people worldwide.
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A Day at the Zoo
August 1, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Participants in our School Asthma Initiation and their families are invited to a day at the Pittsburgh Zoo! The day includes two free zoo tickets, provided lunch, and activities for all ages!
Click here to sign up today.
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We're all about breathing.
Breathe PA's mission is to help western Pennsylvanians breathe better and live healthier. Headquartered in Cranberry Township, PA, Breathe PA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that helps western Pennsylvanians achieve and maintain optimal lung health through education, prevention, awareness, and direct services.
Visit www.breathepa.org to learn more.
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