Understanding youth nicotine addiction: Health impacts & cessation resources/strategies

Speaker: Crystal Shen, MD, MPH. Pediatrician and Legislative Committee Chair for the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics link to bio info

Results from a National Youth Tobacco Survey found that 68% of youth who vape have tried to quit, but almost two-thirds had no cessation support. The latest generation of e-cigarettes and oral nicotine products contain significantly higher levels of nicotine than cigarettes, spurring youth nicotine addiction. Those who work with youth in schools and other settings may find it challenging to address youth nicotine addiction and to support nicotine cessation.

Dr. Crystal Shen will overview treatment approaches and resources for youth who use nicotine products, including how Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) medications can be prescribed to adolescents under 18 as per American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations. She will explain cessation resources that are available including those for Washington state and address common questions about nicotine addiction and the challenges of quitting.

This presentation is for school staff, professionals focused on youth and schools, prevention and public health professionals, and all others interested in improving youth nicotine cessation treatment.