The rise of youth vaping is a significant issue facing Pennsylvania. In the 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 19.2% of Pennsylvania high school students reported current use of e-cigarettes. This is alarming given the irreparable adverse impact of nicotine use during adolescence. Additionally, e-cigarette use in Pennsylvania strains limited time and resources as school districts attempt to monitor and address on-campus use.

Description

The American Lung Association and the Pennsylvania Alliance to Control Tobacco recommend a six-component comprehensive public health approach to address the youth vaping epidemic. These efforts are funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

At its foundation lies the Tobacco Resistance Unit (TRU), a statewide initiative empowering students to educate peers on vaping risks and promote tobacco-free lifestyles through advocacy and activities.

Education and policy efforts are next: ACT to Address Youth Cessation equips school staff with tools for teen intervention, while the Vape-Free Schools Initiative assists schools in tobacco-free policy assessment.

The final three components are CATCH® My Breath, an evidence-based vaping prevention program, INDEPTH®, an alternative to suspension program offered to students who violated a school’s policy, and Not On Tobacco®, a smoking cessation program. To increase accessibility and assist schools in implementation, the Lung Association offers facilitator training scholarships and stipends.

Lessons Learned

Balancing the time and resource constraints faced by teachers with the expectations of the Lung Association poses a significant challenge. Anticipated future lessons and evaluations will inform ongoing project development.

Recommendations

The Lung Association recommends first establishing rapport and strengthening relationships to collaborate successfully with schools. By building trusting relationships, actively listening to their needs and concerns, and offering tailored support and resources, we can create an environment that fosters the adoption and sustainability of health initiatives within the school community.