Tobacco Use Among Youth Hits 25-Year Low: A Promising Trend
A groundbreaking report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reveals a significant decline in tobacco product use among middle and high school students. The data, collected through the National Youth Tobacco Survey, shows a remarkable 25-year low, with only 2.25 million students reporting tobacco product use in the last 30 days.
E-Cigarettes See Sharp Decline
The survey highlights a notable drop in e-cigarette use, with 1.63 million students reporting usage in 2024, down from 2.13 million in 2023. This decline is a promising sign, but experts caution that continued efforts are necessary to maintain this momentum.
Female and Hispanic Students Lead the Way
Female students reported the largest decline in tobacco product use, with Hispanic students also showing a significant drop. These findings suggest that targeted strategies, such as price increases, media campaigns, and smoke-free policies, may be effective in reducing tobacco use among specific demographics.
Nicotine Pouches on the Rise
While e-cigarettes remain the most popular tobacco product among students, nicotine pouches are gaining traction, with 1.8% of students reporting usage. This increase is concerning, as nicotine pouches are still a relatively new product, and their long-term effects are not yet fully understood.
Zyn Leads the Nicotine Pouch Market
Zyn, a brand owned by Philip Morris International, has become the most popular nicotine pouch brand, with 68.7% market share. The brand’s popularity has led to a nationwide shortage, prompting Philip Morris to invest $600 million in a new production facility.
Remaining Vigilant
Experts emphasize that youth use of tobacco products in any form is unsafe and requires continued public health efforts to ensure all young people can live healthy, tobacco-free lives. As the data suggests, progress has been made, but there is still much work to be done.
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