Decline in E-Cigarette Use Among High Schoolers a Win for Public Health

Strategic Insights -

E-cigarette use among high school students has seen a significant decline, with approximately 580,000 fewer high school students reporting current e-cigarette use in 2023 compared to 2022, according to the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS). However, an increase in current overall tobacco product use was observed among middle school students, with a rise in multiple tobacco product use among this age group. The FDA remains concerned about youth tobacco product use and has announced new enforcement actions targeting illegal e-cigarettes with youth appeal.

Key Takeaways:

  • 10% of U.S. middle and high school students reported current use of any tobacco product in 2023, with 2.8 million youth affected.
  • Current overall tobacco product use declined among high school students during 2022-2023, from 16.5% to 12.6%.
  • The decline in e-cigarette use among high school students was primarily attributed to reduced e-cigarette use, with 14.1% of high school students reporting e-cigarette use in 2022, compared to 10% in 2023.
  • Disposable e-cigarette products were the most commonly used type of e-cigarette among youth who reported e-cigarette use, with Elf Bar, Esco Bars, Vuse, JUUL, and Mr. Fog being the most popular brands.
  • Fruit, candy, mint, and menthol were the most commonly used flavors among youth who reported e-cigarette use, with nearly all users opting for flavored products (89.4%).
  • The FDA has taken enforcement actions against 20 retailers for selling unauthorized Elf Bar products, with civil money penalty actions seeking similar amounts to those previously filed.

Statistics:

  • 10% of U.S. middle and high school students reported current use of any tobacco product in 2023, with 2.8 million youth affected.
  • Current overall tobacco product use declined among high school students during 2022-2023, from 16.5% to 12.6%.
  • Reduced e-cigarette use led to a decline in high school students reporting e-cigarette use, from 14.1% in 2022 to 10% in 2023.
  • Approximately 580,000 fewer high school students reported current e-cigarette use in 2023 compared to 2022.

Sources:

  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  • 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS)