The May 22 with MDHHS featured Dr. Brittany Tayler from Hurley Hospital and MSU and Tom Moore, Public Consultant at MDHHS. The webinar focused on the health and behavioral impacts of nicotine use, particularly among youth, and highlighted the need for schools and communities to adopt more supportive, restorative approaches to tobacco cessation. Key topics included the neurological and physical effects of nicotine on adolescents, emerging trends in e-cigarette and synthetic nicotine use, disparities in usage among LGBTQIA populations, and the ineffectiveness of punitive disciplinary policies. Emphasis was placed on creating affirming, intersectional support systems and exploring more effective, health-based interventions.
Key Takeaways & Action Points:
- Adolescents are highly vulnerable to nicotine’s effects, including brain development and long-term health risks.
- Vaping trends remain concerning; new, less-regulated products are gaining popularity.
- LGBTQIA youth face disproportionately high usage rates and need affirming, culturally competent cessation supports.
- Schools are encouraged to shift from punitive to restorative policies focused on support and addiction recovery.
- More data and guidance are needed on nicotine concentration impacts, regulatory clarity, and targeted interventions.
- Next session (June 5) will explore school policy reform; resources will be shared online.