2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey: A Significant Decline in E-Cigarette Use Among U.S. Youth

The latest findings from the National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS), conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reveal promising trends in e-cigarette use among middle and high school students in the United States. This substantial survey, which ran from January 22 to May 22, 2024, highlights significant shifts in student behavior regarding e-cigarette consumption.

The Decline in E-Cigarette Use

The survey reported a notable decrease in the number of U.S. middle and high school students who expressed current e-cigarette use (defined as usage within the past 30 days). In 2023, about 2.13 million students, representing 7.7% of that demographic, reported using e-cigarettes. By 2024, this number plunged to 1.63 million, equating to 5.9% of youth. This marked decrease underscores an important shift in vaping culture among young people.

Specifically, the decline was predominantly observed among high school students, where usage dropped from 1.56 million to 1.21 million. Interestingly, the NYTS indicated that there was no statistically significant change in e-cigarette use among middle school students, suggesting differing patterns of behavior in these age groups.

A Historical Comparison

The latest data is particularly telling when viewed in historical context. The number of youths reporting e-cigarette usage in 2024 is approximately one-third of what it was at its peak in 2019. Back then, over five million youth reported using e-cigarettes, raising concerning alarms about youth vaping trends. The recent decline highlights the impact of targeted efforts in tobacco control and education.

Impacts of Education and Enforcement

According to Brian King, Ph.D., M.P.H., director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, the findings are encouraging but indicate that ongoing efforts are still necessary. King highlighted the effectiveness of education and awareness programs in helping to reduce e-cigarette use among youth. Moreover, he pointed to successful law enforcement actions against illegal sales, significantly contributing to this decline.

In particular, enforcement actions surrounding brands such as Elf Bar—currently unauthorized by the FDA—have seen considerable success. Reports show a substantial drop in e-cigarette use of this brand, with self-reported usage among youths declining from 56.7% in 2023 to 36.1% in 2024. This proportionate drop reflects the FDA’s rigorous compliance efforts over the past year.

Regulatory Actions Against Unauthorized Products

The FDA has taken significant action against the Elf Bar brand, issuing over 1,000 warning letters and 240 civil penalties targeting retailers and supply chain participants. Furthermore, the agency has implemented import alerts for Elf Bar products, placing them on a “red list.” This designation allows the FDA to detain these products at U.S. borders, circumventing the need for a full inspection upon entry.

Daily Usage and Flavor Preferences

Among those identified as current e-cigarette users, a startling 26.3% reported using these products daily. Additionally, an overwhelming majority of young e-cigarette users, at 87.6%, preferred flavored products. The top three flavors among youths were fruit (62.8%), candy (33.3%), and mint (25.1%), indicating a strong trend towards flavored vaping options among minors.

Popular Brands and Product Types

Disposable e-cigarette products have emerged as the most common type used among young people. The survey assessed various brands, uncovering patterns in preferences. The top reported brands among youth who identified as current e-cigarette users included:

• Elf Bar: 36.1%
• Breeze: 19.9%
• Mr. Fog: 15.8%
• Vuse: 13.7%
• JUUL: 12.6%

Conclusion

The recent NYTS findings showcase a significant decline in e-cigarette use amongst U.S. middle and high school students, reflecting the effectiveness of ongoing educational initiatives and regulatory actions taken by the FDA. However, the data also points to the need for continued efforts to address youth vaping, particularly as certain product preferences and trends persist. Stakeholders at schools, health organizations, and within families must stay vigilant in their efforts to further reduce youth exposure to e-cigarettes to ensure a healthier future for the upcoming generations.