The nicotine and tobacco epidemic among adolescents: new products are addicting our youth

Purpose of reviewNew nicotine and tobacco products such as electronic cigarettes and oral nicotine products have increased in use and threaten to addict a new generation of youth. This review summarizes current literature on nicotine and tobacco products used by youth, epidemiology, health effects, prevention and treatment of nicotine dependence, and current policies and regulations.Recent findingsElectronic cigarettes and oral nicotine products are popular among youth, attracting adolescents through exposure to deceptive marketing and fruit, candy and dessert flavors. Electronic cigarettes and oral nicotine product use can lead to nicotine addiction and is associated with respiratory, cardiovascular, and oral health problems, although long-term health effects are not fully known. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authority to regulate nicotine and tobacco products; however, thousands of unregulated and unauthorized products remain on the market.Millions of adolescents continue to use nicotine and tobacco products, which puts them at risk for health problems, including nicotine addiction. Pediatric providers can provide prevention messages, screen youth for tobacco and nicotine use, and offer appropriate treatment options. Regulation of tobacco and nicotine products by the FDA is critical to reverse this public health epidemic of youth nicotine and tobacco use.

Automated summary

This review summarizes current literature on the use of nicotine and tobacco products by youth, including epidemiology, health effects, prevention and treatment of nicotine dependence, and current policies and regulations. Electronic cigarettes and oral nicotine products are popular among youth, attracting them through deceptive marketing and appealing flavors. The use of these products can lead to nicotine addiction and is associated with various health risks.