The rapidly growing use of nicotine products among our nation’s youth is one of the most critical public health issues currently facing our country. In 2019 alone, electric cigarette use by high schoolers spiked 28% compared to 2018 and doubled between 2017 and 2020.
To ensure the future health of our communities, we must help young people avoid becoming hooked on these addictive products. Flavored tobacco plays a key role in convincing young people to try these products. Kaiser Permanente supports removing all flavored tobacco products from the market, including flavored e-cigarettes.
Historically, the marketing and promotion of menthol cigarettes have been targeted heavily toward African Americans through culturally tailored advertising images and messages, and over 7 out of 10 African American youth ages 12 to 17 years who smoke use menthol cigarettes.
In order to ensure that our country’s young people have the best possible chance of growing up free from nicotine addiction we support:
In support of our policy priorities, Kaiser Permanente has acted on policies that:
1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020.
2 Truth Initiative, 2018.
3 Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, 2020.