Tobacco & Health: In the News

Teens, local leaders, and advocates gathered in Asbury Park for the “No Butts on the Beach” campaign, spotlighting New Jersey’s ban on smoking at public beaches. The event raised awareness about health risks and environmental harm caused by cigarette litter, reinforcing the importance of clean, smoke-free shorelines.

This episode explores how vaping impacts mental and physical health, especially among teens and young adults. Experts discuss the addictive nature of nicotine, its effects on brain development, and the link between vaping and anxiety, depression, and reduced cognitive performance. The conversation also covers social pressures, misconceptions about vaping being “safe,” and practical strategies for prevention and quitting.

The discussion addressed rising concerns about e-cigarettes and nicotine addiction, especially among adults struggling to quit smoking. Pallone stressed that e-cigarettes aren’t risk-free and often perpetuate dependence. He called for stronger regulation, better cessation support, and public education to prevent youth initiation and adult relapse. The roundtable emphasized balancing harm reduction with preventing a new generation of nicotine users.

For decades, Big Tobacco has aggressively marketed menthol cigarettes to Black communities through ads, sponsorships, and cultural ties—creating an illusion of safety and glamor. Menthol makes smoking easier to start and harder to quit, fueling addiction and health disparities. With 80% of Black smokers using menthol, advocates urge stronger public health campaigns, community action, and policies like menthol bans to protect health and break the cycle of nicotine dependence.

Despite state and federal bans, candy- and fruit-flavored e-cigarettes remain easy for young people in New Jersey to access. Menthol products—historically marketed to Black communities—make up 40% of tobacco sales in the state. A recent roundtable revealed 192 underage tobacco purchases, highlighting enforcement gaps. Advocates and lawmakers are pushing for stronger FDA action and a statewide menthol ban to protect youth and reduce health disparities.

Irakli Kakauridze, former Tobacco Programs Supervisor at Tobacco-Free for a Healthy NJ, shares his journey from Georgia to public health advocacy. He oversees youth prevention programs and initiatives to reduce tobacco use and exposure. Discover free resources like NJ Quitline (1-866-NJ-STOPS) and text support (vapefreenj to 88709) to help you quit.

Despite NJ laws banning flavored tobacco, these products remain easy for youth to access. Local enforcement and education—like Clifton’s retailer checks—show real progress, but statewide compliance is critical. Programs like STOMP help merchants follow the law and protect kids.