U.S. Youth Tobacco Use Hits 25-Year Low: Challenges Remain
Introduction
Recent data from the 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS) shows that tobacco product use among U.S. middle and high school students has dropped to its lowest level in 25 years. In 2024, an estimated 2.25 million students reported using tobacco products, down from 2.80 million in 2023. This significant decline highlights positive strides in public health efforts, though much work remains.
Major Decline in E-Cigarette Use
The most notable drop was seen in the number of students using e-cigarettes. In 2024, about 1.63 million students reported using e-cigarettes, down from 2.13 million in 2023. The survey also found a decrease in hookah use, with 190,000 students using it in 2024, compared to 290,000 the year before. Additionally, cigarette smoking reached an all-time low, with only 1.4% of students reporting use.
Despite these encouraging numbers, e-cigarettes remained the most popular tobacco product among students, with 5.9% of youth reporting use in 2024.
Ongoing Disparities in Tobacco Use
While the overall decline is promising, the data reveals disparities in tobacco use among different student groups. Female students and Hispanic students saw significant declines in tobacco and e-cigarette use. However, tobacco use, including e-cigarettes, increased among American Indian or Alaska Native students. Additionally, the use of nicotine pouches grew among White students.
Public Health Response and Prevention Efforts
The decline in youth tobacco use can be attributed to several factors, including national and local prevention strategies. These efforts include:
- Increasing tobacco product prices.
- Launching mass media campaigns to educate youth about the dangers of tobacco.
- Enforcing smoke-free policies that now include e-cigarettes.
- Regulating the tobacco marketplace through the FDA’s premarket reviews and enforcement measures.
The Path Forward: A Call for Vigilance
Health experts like Dr. Deirdre Lawrence Kittner from the CDC and Dr. Brian King from the FDA stress that while progress is being made, more needs to be done. With more than 2 million young people still using tobacco products, public health efforts must continue to address disparities and prevent new generations from starting.
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Tobacco use at a young age poses significant health risks, making it essential to maintain and strengthen these preventive measures.
Source: Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
Priya Bairagi
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
