ATLANTA, USA – New data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS) reveals a dramatic reduction in e-cigarette use among US youth, with half a million fewer reported users in 2024 compared to the previous year. The results, released by the US Food and Drug Administration and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, highlight significant trends in e-cigarette and nicotine pouch consumption among adolescents.
The latest statistics, published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, indicate that e-cigarette use among middle and high school students has decreased from 2.13 million (7.7%) in 2023 to 1.63 million (5.9%) in 2024. This substantial decline is primarily attributed to lower usage among high school students, while rates among middle school students remained stable. Notably, the current number of youth e-cigarette users in 2024 is about one-third of the peak figure recorded in 2019, when over five million reported using these products.
“The ongoing decrease in e-cigarette use among youth is a significant achievement for public health,” a spokesperson for the FDA emphasized. “This progress reflects the dedicated efforts of health authorities over recent years, but we must remain proactive to further diminish youth e-cigarette consumption.”
Among current youth e-cigarette users, 26.3% indicated daily usage, with a striking 87.6% preferring flavored products. Fruit, candy, and mint flavors rank as the top choices. Disposable e-cigarettes emerged as the most commonly used product, with notable brands including Elf Bar, Breeze, Fog, Vuse, and JUUL, the latter two facing scrutiny due to regulatory actions.
Data also showed a significant decline in usage of the Elf Bar brand, dropping from 56.7% in 2023 to 36.1% in 2024. The FDA has highlighted its commitment to addressing unregulated products like Elf Bar, implementing strict compliance measures against retailers improperly distributing these items.
“Tobacco product use, including e-cigarettes, poses health risks for youth; maintaining vigilance is critical,” stated officials from the CDC. “Public health initiatives must persist to ensure young people live tobacco-free lives.”
The report indicated that nicotine pouch usage remained relatively unchanged, with 22.4% of users reporting daily application. Among these youth, Zyn was the leading brand, with mint flavor being the most popular choice.
As youth tobacco product usage patterns continue to evolve, authorities maintain a strong focus on prevention. Especially with the new school year approaching, parents and educators are encouraged to engage in discussions with teens about the dangers and realities of tobacco products. Ample educational resources are available for free through various campaigns aimed at fostering awareness and promoting healthier choices among adolescents.
