an analysis of Nicotine Pouch Use by Middle School and high School Students Surveyed by the National Youth Tobacco Survey in 2021 and a Review of the Literature

Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of the use of nicotine pouches and dissolvable tobacco products among middle and high school students in the United States, as reported in the 2021 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS). The authors examine the risk factors associated with the use of these products, as well as the relationship between the use of nicotine pouches and dissolvable tobacco products and the use of electronic cigarettes and conventional cigarettes.

Key Points:

* The 2021 NYTS included questions about the use of nicotine pouches and dissolvable tobacco products.
* a small percentage of middle and high school students reported using nicotine pouches and dissolvable tobacco products.
* Risk factors for the use of these products included older age and non-hispanic White race.
* Students who did not smoke cigarettes or electronic cigarettes had lower odds of using nicotine pouches and dissolvable tobacco products.
* The perception of harm associated with electronic cigarettes increased the likelihood of using alternative nicotine products.
* Nicotine pouches contain nicotine and have the potential for both long-term harm and addiction.
* Physicians, public health officials, and educators should include conversations about nicotine pouches and dissolvable tobacco products in their routine professional activities with middle and high school students.

Main Message:
The use of nicotine pouches and dissolvable tobacco products among middle and high school students is a growing concern due to industry marketing techniques, availability, and popularity of new products, and ambiguous nicotine concentrations. While the use of these products is relatively low among this population, it is important for healthcare providers, public health officials, and educators to be aware of the potential risks associated with their use and to educate students about these risks. as new tobacco products are introduced to the market, it is crucial to monitor their use and impact on public health, particularly among young people.

Speciale, Z., Rao, S., Yang, S., & Nugent, K. (2023). an analysis of Nicotine Pouch Use by Middle School and high School Students Surveyed by the National Youth Tobacco Survey in 2021 and a Review of the Literature. Journal of Primary Care & Community health, 14, 21501319231169994. https://doi.org/10.1177/21501319231169994