Communities across the country will observe National Take Down Tobacco Day on April 1, a youth-led event highlighting concerns about flavored e-cigarettes and new “smart vape” devices that target young people.
The day draws attention to ongoing tobacco industry tactics that continue to appeal to youth. According to the 2024 New York Youth Tobacco Survey, 17% of high school students in New York State use some form of tobacco product, with e-cigarettes being the most common. Organizers say these trends underscore the importance of continued advocacy and education efforts.
“Youth addiction to nicotine is no accident,” said Lindsey Kahya, Reality Check Coordinator at the Smoking and Health Action Coalition of Livingston and Monroe Counties. "Youth-friendly flavors that mimic candy and desserts, and now devices with built in games and screens, are designed to hook young people early and keep them using.”
Emerging products known as “smart vapes” combine digital entertainment features such as touch screens or games activated during use. These devices are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration but remain widely available despite being sold illegally in the United States. Hannah Lee, MPH, Director of SHAC said: “It’s well documented that nicotine harms the developing adolescent brain. In addition to addiction, e-cigarette aerosol exposes users to toxic chemicals and heavy metals, with long-term consequences we are still uncovering.”
National Take Down Tobacco Day was started in 1996 as Kick Butts Day by Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. The event continues its focus on empowering youth voices demanding accountability from tobacco companies.
Reality Check Youth at West Irondequoit High School plan activities including sharing facts about tobacco industry marketing tactics during morning announcements throughout Take Down Tobacco Week.
SHAC is a program of the American Lung Association (ALA) working locally in Livingston and Monroe counties through education campaigns aimed at reducing tobacco use. The ALA has supported research contributing to advancements in lung disease treatment according to the official website. It has expanded its reach nationwide via local offices addressing lung health issues according to its website.
The ALA received a four-star rating from Charity Navigator for fiscal management according to its official website. Harold Wimmer serves as president and CEO according to ALA's official site.
Looking ahead, community members interested in supporting youth advocacy or learning more about local initiatives can visit smokingandhealth.org for additional information.
