While we know that vaping has been prevalent in middle schools and high schools for almost a decade, some school district leaders in Florida are finding that there's a growing concern about vaping use in elementary schools where students as young as 4th and 5th grade are being found with vapes.
This alarming trend is traced to popular social media outlets like Tik-Tok and Instagram, where vaping is made to look appealing by companies who use strategic marketing tactics like sleek packaging and social media influencers to entice young people. In addition, the tobacco industry uses product placement of e-cigarettes and vaping products on tv shows and in movies where children can easily see and become curious to try them. Parents often are not aware of this issue until after their child has been caught on campus. It can be an eye-opening experience.
In 2024, more than 40% of high school e-cigarette users reported using vapes at least 20 days a month. Nearly 30% reported vaping every day. Almost 90% of youth e-cigarette users reported using flavored products with fruit, candy, dessert, mint, and menthol reported as the most popular flavors.
Florida is involved in several efforts to keep vaping products out of the hands of children. Earlier this year, the state securing a $79 million settlement with Juul to resolve a lawsuit regarding its past marketing practices that targeted underage users.
Parents - prevention begins with education and communication so talk with your kids early and often. Before they even think about vaping, help them to learn about the facts and potential risks because knowledge is power! 💪
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