Protecting Children and Adolescents From Tobacco and Nicotine

Pediatrics. 2023 May 1;151(5):e2023061805. doi: 10.1542/peds.2023-061805.

Abstract

Significant strides have been made in reducing rates of cigarette smoking among adolescents in the United States. However, rates of e-cigarette and similar device use among youth are high, and rates of other tobacco product use, such as cigars and hookahs, have not declined. In addition, almost 40% of children 3 to 11 years of age are regularly exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke, and rates of secondhand exposure to e-cigarette aerosol have increased over the last decade. Pediatricians are uniquely positioned to help children, adolescents, and their families live tobacco-free lives. Actions by pediatricians can help reduce children's risk of developing tobacco and nicotine use disorder and reduce children's tobacco smoke and/or aerosol exposure.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Aerosols
  • Child
  • Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems*
  • Humans
  • Nicotine / adverse effects
  • Tobacco Products*
  • Tobacco Smoke Pollution* / adverse effects
  • Tobacco Smoke Pollution* / prevention & control
  • Tobacco Use Disorder*
  • United States / epidemiology

Substances

  • Nicotine
  • Tobacco Smoke Pollution
  • Aerosols