CDC Survey Says Teens Not Attracted To Flavored Vapes

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently conducted a survey in 2019 to understand the preferences of teenagers when it comes to vaping. Surprisingly, the survey found that teens are not attracted to flavored vapes, contradicting the common belief that flavors entice young people into vaping.

The survey asked teenagers what attracted them to vaping, and the majority responded that it was simply curiosity that led them to try e-cigarettes. Only around 22% of respondents mentioned flavored vapes as a reason for vaping, which was on par with the percentage of teens who enjoyed vaping because they could do tricks.

These findings shed light on the misconceptions surrounding flavored vapes and their appeal to teenagers. Many parents, health experts, and government officials have been quick to blame flavors and marketing practices for the rise in teenage vaping. However, without consulting young people themselves, these claims were based on assumptions rather than actual evidence.

The release of the CDC survey results comes at a time when public perception of vaping is at an all-time low. The outbreak of EVALI (e-cigarette and vaping associated lung injury) earlier this year further fueled concerns and led to hospitalizations and fatalities. Many attributed the rising teenage vaping rates to flavored e-liquids that were allegedly designed to entice young people into vaping.

Despite the evidence from the CDC survey, policy actions have been taken to restrict flavored vape products. The FDA imposed a partial ban on flavored vape cartridges, and several states have proposed or implemented their own bans. However, it is worth questioning whether these actions are justified in light of the survey’s findings.

It is essential to consider that adults also enjoy flavored products, such as cotton candy and bubblegum. Assuming that only teenagers are attracted to flavors undermines the diversity of adult preferences. Taste buds do not disappear as one gets older, so it is possible that adults also appreciate a range of flavors, including those found in e-liquids.

While some states already have flavor bans in effect, there is no indication of how long these bans will last. Additionally, the CDC has reported a drop in cases of EVALI. However, caution is still advised for young people and pregnant women when it comes to vaping.

It is crucial that policymaking and public perceptions are based on accurate information and the preferences of those involved. The CDC survey provides valuable insights into teenage vaping motivations, highlighting the need for a more nuanced approach to addressing the issue. Flavor bans may not be the most effective solution if they do not align with the preferences of the target demographic.

In the end, it is essential to consider all available evidence and engage in open and informed discussions before implementing policies that may have unintended consequences. The CDC survey serves as a reminder that assumptions and projections onto young people may not always reflect reality.