Youth Tobacco Prevention
Most people who use tobacco as adults begin using tobacco during their adolescent years. Did you know 95% of tobacco users start using tobacco products before they are 21 years old? That's why preventing the use of tobacco products by youth is critical to tobacco-prevention efforts across Mecklenburg County and the U.S.
Any Form of Use Is Unsafe
The rise of tobacco use by youth is attributed to e-cigarette use, or vaping. While cigarette use by youth has dropped, the use of electronic cigarettes, specifically flavored disposable vapes, has increased among middle and high school students.
Flavoring in such products make them more appealing to youth. However, vaping may pose serious and avoidable health risks. Exposure to nicotine during adolescence can lead to addiction and cause long-term harm to brain development. The aerosol from vapes or e-cigarettes contains toxins that are harmful when inhaled.
Help in Quitting Tobacco Use
#DITCHVAPE
The most recent National Youth Tobacco Survey showed that more than 2.5 million students currently used e-cigarettes/vapes. Approximately 85% used flavored e-cigarettes. According to Truth Initiative, 81% of youth started using e-cigarettes/vapes to decrease anxiety, depression, and stress. However, these products have been shown to worsen mental health.
You can get help quitting by texting DITCHVAPE to 88709.
#LiveVapeFree
Youth can enroll today in a free, teen vaping text quit program by texting VAPEFREENC to 873373 to get started. Available for teens (ages 13-17). Youth may also text "Coach" for immediate access to coach.
For parents/adults looking to learn more about youth vaping and how to help, the Live Vape Free program has a component focused on supporting parents and other concerned adults with the vaping epidemic. This online learning program is designed to provide the insights needed for getting started, tips and tools, and resources for ongoing support.
Youth Voices: Tobacco - Free Video Contest
Winners Announced for Tobacco - Free Video Contest
First Place Middle School Individual Winner:
"Don't Use Tobacco" by Santiago
First Place Middle School Team Winner:
"tobacco is Bad here is why" by Mateo and Gabriela
First Place High School Individual Winner:
"Choose to Refuse" by Jessica
Second place High School Individual Winner + People's Choice Award:
"Breaking News" by Jacob
Honorable Mention Award:
"Vaping Can Ruin You" by Jawad
It is important that we amplify youth voices by involving them in awareness, education, and advocacy opportunities. This contest alllowed Health Region 4, NC middle and high school aged youth to participate in creatively educating and advocating for change through video media and/or photovoice to further promote tobacco-free environments.