Norton Children’s offering teen vaping cessation classes

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Health professionals are raising concerns about a growing number of teens using e-cigarettes and vaping products, warning that nicotine addiction is becoming increasingly common among younger age groups.

According to the most recent National Youth Tobacco Survey, an estimated 1.6 million middle and high school students reported using e-cigarettes in 2024, with nearly one-third of those users being middle school-aged children.

Michelle Shaver, coordinator with Norton Children’s Prevention and Wellness, said local health professionals are seeing similar trends and are especially concerned about how young some users are becoming.

“We’re seeing kids as young as 11, 12 and 13 years old,” Shaver said. “We want to make sure our numbers don’t align with those national trends.”

Vaping devices, often marketed with colorful packaging and sweet flavors, are frequently perceived by teens as less harmful than traditional cigarettes. However, health experts say that misconception can quickly lead to nicotine dependence.

“Some teens think it’s just something they’ll do for now and quit later whenever they want,” Shaver said. “But what we’re seeing is about 65% of teens who vape have already tried to quit and want to quit, but are not able to.”

Unlike water vapor, vape aerosol can contain nicotine, heavy metals and other harmful chemicals that may damage the lungs and body. Health officials say nicotine exposure is especially harmful to teenagers because their brains are still developing.

Shaver said nicotine can intensify challenges many adolescents already face, including mood swings, sleep problems and anxiety.

“Teens are already going through so much developmentally,” she said. “Nicotine just compounds those things we’re already seeing — irritability, sleep issues and mood disruptions.”

Health officials also warn parents to be aware of changes in behavior that could signal nicotine use, including worsening sleep habits, mood changes or trouble at school. However, Shaver said the most important tool for prevention is communication rather than punishment.

“The key is open, honest communication,” she said. “Scare tactics aren’t the way.”

For teens already struggling with nicotine addiction, Norton Children’s Prevention and Wellness offers free tobacco and vaping cessation classes through its “NOT” program, which stands for “Not On Tobacco.”

The voluntary seven-week program is available for teens ages 14 to 18 and focuses on building quit plans, managing nicotine cravings and developing healthier habits to support long-term success.

“This is something they can quit with support,” Shaver said. “And we are here to support them.”

Free cessation classes are also available for adults ages 18 and older.

For more information about tobacco and vaping prevention resources or upcoming cessation classes, visit NortonChildrens.com/classes or call (502) 629-1234, option 4.