A recent study conducted by the University of Southern California (USC) has revealed a significant rise in nicotine pouch usage among U.S. high school students between 2023 and 2024. These small, discreet sachets, placed between the gum and lip, have gained popularity, particularly among adolescents. The research, which surveyed over 10,000 teens nationwide, highlights this growing public health issue. Similar to flavored e-cigarettes when they first emerged, these oral nicotine products are becoming increasingly widespread. Organizations like the American Heart Association and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids have voiced concerns about their use among teens and called for stricter regulations. Despite FDA approval for marketing nicotine pouches to adults aged 21 and older as commercial tobacco products, questions remain regarding their appeal and potential risks to younger demographics.
The trend analysis involved surveys from 10th and 12th graders participating in Monitoring the Future, an annual survey initiated in 1975. In 2024, 5.4% of teens reported using nicotine pouches, up from 3.0% in 2023. This increase coincides with a decline in vaping, yet dual usage of both e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches has risen. Male, non-Hispanic white teens, and those living in rural areas face higher risks of nicotine pouch use. Researchers emphasize the need for targeted prevention strategies due to differing risk profiles between nicotine pouches and e-cigarettes. While long-term health effects remain unclear, addiction risks and symptoms such as mouth sores and gum irritation have been reported.
Dr. Adam Leventhal, senior author of the study, stresses the importance of raising public awareness and educating youth about the dangers of nicotine pouches. Policymakers may consider enhancing regulation, including restricting appealing flavors, to protect young users. The FDA's authorization decision relied partly on data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey, which found no statistically significant monthly increase but did highlight a significant rise in lifetime use among high school students. Tracking usage trends in 2025 will be crucial in assessing the impact of this authorization. Further studies should explore long-term usage patterns, initiation rates, nicotine concentration, and potential negative health outcomes linked to nicotine pouches.
Studying regulatory policy effectiveness and prevention efforts is vital, especially among high-risk groups such as rural teens and dual users. Dr. Dae-Hee Han notes that nicotine pouches are relatively new, necessitating time to gather comprehensive data on prevalence, policy impacts, and prevention measures. Collaborative efforts involving parents, teachers, pediatricians, and policymakers are essential to reverse this concerning trend and safeguard adolescent health.
As nicotine pouches continue to gain traction among younger demographics, addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. Heightened public awareness, educational initiatives, and stringent regulatory measures could mitigate the rising prevalence and associated health risks. Understanding demographic differences and tailoring prevention strategies accordingly can play a pivotal role in curbing this alarming trend among American youth.