Facts, Not Fear
Know what nicotine products are really doing.
Vapes, disposables, and nicotine pouches change fast. The basics do not: nicotine is addictive, teen brains are still developing, and support works.
1.63M
Youth currently using e-cigarettes in 2024.
480K
Middle and high school students using nicotine pouches.
63.9%
Current e-cigarette users who reported wanting to quit.
The Facts You Need
Three things to know before the industry gets to define the story
No marketing spin. No scare tactics. Just the pieces that help students, parents, and educators make better choices.
Nicotine can rewire a developing brain
Nicotine affects attention, learning, mood, impulse control, and the reward system. Teen brains keep developing into the mid-20s.
Learn about the brain"Tobacco-free" does not mean risk-free
Nicotine pouches may be smokeless and discreet, but they can still deliver high levels of nicotine and increase dependence.
Compare the productsThese products are marketed, not accidental
Flavors, social content, concealability, and sleek packaging are all part of why youth prevention has to stay current.
See the tacticsSource: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Food and Drug Administration, National Youth Tobacco Survey, 2020-2024.
Brain Development
Nicotine changes the reward loop
Addiction is not a character flaw. Nicotine trains the brain to expect a fast reward, then makes normal stress, focus, and mood feel harder without it.
Rapid development
The brain is still building decision-making, attention, and emotional regulation systems.
More cravings
High-nicotine products can create withdrawal, irritability, and anxiety between uses.
Support helps
Quitting is easier with tools, text support, trusted adults, and a plan for cravings.
Know the Products
Different products, similar risks
The device changes. The hook is still nicotine.
E-cigarettes and vapes
Battery-powered devices that heat liquid into an aerosol. Many contain nicotine and can expose lungs to chemicals and fine particles.
Nicotine pouches
Small pouches placed under the lip. They can be easy to hide and may contain high levels of nicotine.
Disposable vapes
Single-use devices with bright flavors, high nicotine concentration, and added waste from batteries and plastics.
Targeting Tactics
If it feels designed for teens, ask why
Youth appeal is not an accident. The tactics are familiar once you know what to look for.
Flavors
Sweet, minty, fruity, and dessert-style flavors make nicotine products feel less risky than they are.
Social content
Posts, trends, and influencer-style content can make nicotine seem normal, funny, or harmless.
Concealability
Small pouches and disposable devices are built to be easy to carry, hide, and use in places where nicotine does not belong.
Help Is Available
Most young people who use nicotine want support, not judgment
Quitting is a process. It can take more than one try, and that is normal. Start with one support option today.
Healthcare support
Providers can help with quit plans, cravings, and medication questions.
Find resourcesFamily conversations
Short prompts can help adults start honest, low-pressure conversations.
30-day guideEvidence-Based Resources
Download, print, and share
Use these materials in classrooms, health offices, resource tables, parent nights, or one-on-one conversations.
Vaping Fact Sheet
2025 Edition
A printable overview of vaping, nicotine pouches, risks, and prevention facts for youth and adults.
Clear the Air Guide
Parent and caregiver resource
A guide for supporting teens, understanding vaping risks, and starting better conversations at home.
Discussion Guide
Parent and educator friendly
Short conversation prompts and videos to help adults talk with middle school students about vaping.