Vaping use up among U.S. teens, but declining in states with stronger restrictions

U.S. sales of e-cigarettes from 2019 to 2023 increased 47%, raising concerns about youth addiction to vaping (Source: “Vaping is up, especially sweet flavors: New report points to concerns about youth addiction,” Cleveland.com, Dec. 17).
 
Flavors such as fruit, candy and mint make up more than 80% of those sales, according to a recent report (Monitoring E-Cigarette Trends in the United States: Urgent Action Needed to Protect Kids from Flavored E-Cigarettes) from the CDC Foundation and Truth Initiative.
 
The report also found declines in e-cigarette use in regions where strong policies restrict sales of flavored e-cigarettes.
 
“The rise in e-cigarette sales, particularly those with youth-appealing flavors and graphics, is deeply concerning, especially as manufacturers evolve e-cigarette products to feature gamified devices and increased nicotine strength,” said Dr. Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation. “However, the data from states like Massachusetts, California and New York demonstrate how comprehensive policies can effectively curb youth access.”