Loopholes for addiction

We know that when tobacco products are used around youth, there is the potential that youth will duplicate somebody that they look up to or at the very least become curious. With about 90% of current tobacco users starting their addiction as teenagers; prevention efforts such as education, activities, and policies have become more widespread.

Many schools have implemented tobacco-free policies attempting to limit the use of tobacco around impressionable youth and limit any potential access to these products. Tobacco-free policies addressed traditional forms of tobacco such as cigarettes and chew, but nicotine addiction is progressing far beyond these products. Companies have developed dissolvable products, gel and even water that carry high levels of nicotine; many of these products would not be covered by existing school tobacco policies. With the development of new wave tobacco/nicotine products, schools are placed in a position to repeatedly amend their policies in an effort to help keep their students safe and addiction-free.

Nicotine-free policies can address current and future tobacco/nicotine products that are not FDA approved for cessation. Area Substance Abuse Council (ASAC) is currently working with the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) to help schools address these policy issues before any major incidents occur. Schools that want more information on these products or would like to discuss how they can create a more comprehensive policy can call ASAC Prevention Services at (319)390-1884.