Many youth begin experimenting with tobacco and nicotine products during early adolescence, typically between the ages of 11 and 14. Factors such as peer influence, curiosity, and exposure to tobacco marketing can contribute to initiation during this period.

Middle school and high school are critical periods for tobacco and nicotine initiation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 9 out of 10 cigarette smokers first try smoking by age 18, and about 98% of adult smokers report having started smoking before age 26. Similarly, the use of e-cigarettes, or vaping, has become increasingly common among middle and high school students in recent years.

The popularity of e-cigarettes, particularly among youth, has raised concerns about nicotine initiation and addiction. According to the CDC's 2020 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS), approximately 19.6% of high school students and 4.7% of middle school students reported current use of e-cigarettes.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of youth tobacco and nicotine initiation, including exposure to tobacco use among family members or peers, socioeconomic factors, mental health conditions, and exposure to tobacco advertising and marketing.

Preventing youth initiation of tobacco and nicotine products is a public health priority. Comprehensive tobacco control strategies, including tobacco-free policies, increased tobacco taxes, public education campaigns, restrictions on tobacco advertising and promotion, and access to cessation resources, can help reduce youth initiation and prevent lifelong addiction.

Parents, caregivers, and educators play crucial roles in preventing youth tobacco and nicotine initiation by educating youth about the risks of tobacco use, promoting smoke-free environments, and serving as positive role models for tobacco-free living.