On the recordFebruary 28, 2020
I include in the Record an analysis by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, showing that e-cigarette use is dramatically higher among high school and middle school students than amongst adults. Action Needed: E-Cigarettes Since their introduction in 2008, e-cigarettes have become both ubiquitous and an increasing source of public policy concern and debate. This concern stems primarily from drastic increases in youth e-cigarette use. The most recent data show that 27.5% of high schoolers are using these products--a rate of youth tobacco product use not seen in nearly two decades. The public health community, parents and educators are shocked and worried to find their children and students using these products at home and even in class. Young people are reporting severe signs of dependence, including using e-cigarettes when they first wake up, inability to concentrate in the classroom without using an e-cigarette, and even waking in the night to get a nicotine fix. We have known for decades that youth in particular should not be exposed to nicotine because it changes brain chemistry to create a stronger addiction, can lead to memory and concentration problems, and can make youth who use it more susceptible to addiction to other substances. Research also suggests that young people who use e-cigarettes are four times more likely to go on to smoke combustible cigarettes.…
