Despite major progress made in last 50 years, tobacco use among youth remains a major concern. While youth cigarette use is in historic decline, the recent popularity and surge of youth using electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) and vape products is very concerning. Vape products still contain toxic chemicals and highly addictive nicotine. Studies have shown that teens are now using more vape products than traditional combustible cigarettes. The long term consequences of these products on youth are unknown. However, we do know that youth that start using tobacco products containing nicotine are more likely to become addicted and transfer to other forms of tobacco such as cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. The tobacco industry has a long history of marketing their products to youth and recent products are no exception. 

Click on these links below for additional information on:

• Tobacco and Vaping Prevention Curriculums
• Resources for Parents and Adults
• Resources for Youth and Young Adults
• Youth Tobacco and Vaping Cessation Resources
• Electronic Cigarette (E-Cig) and Vaping Products Information
• Chatham County Tobacco-Free Schools Policy

Additional Youth Tobacco Resources

North Carolina Tobacco Prevention & Control Branch

North Carolina Youth Tobacco Survey (NCYTS)

2014 Surgeon General’s Report on the Health Consequences of Smoking-50 Years of Progress

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Smoking and Tobacco Use

CDC Youth Tobacco Prevention Resources

CDC Smoking and Youth Fact Sheet