Kentucky Faces Potential Health Crisis as Youth Tobacco Use Rises Nationally

Why it matters locally: The national report on increased tobacco product use among students is particularly concerning for Kentucky, given the state's historical ties to tobacco farming and its ongoing efforts to combat smoking-related illnesses. With a substantial population and agriculture business, the new trend threatens ongoing campaigns to discourage smoking, especially new vaping products. A rise in youth tobacco use will likely lead to increased healthcare costs for the state, strain resources dedicated to prevention and cessation programs, and potentially impact future economic productivity as a generation becomes addicted.

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A report published this week in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) details a growing trend of tobacco consumption among middle and high school students. The report focuses on the increasing popularity of what it terms "emerging tobacco products," specifically mentioning e-cigarettes and hookahs. The MMWR is a publication produced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and serves as a primary source for public health information in the United States. The report details observed trends, but does not provide analysis as part of this release. The report data is designed to provide surveillance information about diseases and health conditions nationally. It is released weekly to health professionals and researchers.