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Myth #3:%u201cKids aren%u2019t really into tobacco anymore.%u201dWhile traditional cigarette and e-cigarette use has declined among high-school-age young people, vaping has increased in middle school children and remains a public health concern in youth. In 2023, more than 2.1 million middle and high school students reported using e-cigarettes.In Alaska, 22.9 percent of high school students currently use some form of tobacco or nicotine product. That%u2019s about 1 in 4 students. E-cigarettes are the most commonly used, according to the Alaska Department of Health. Nicotine use during adolescence can alter brain development, making preventing youth from forming these habits essential in protecting their long-term health and well-being. Myth #4: %u201cNicotine pouches are safe because they don%u2019t contain tobacco or produce smoke.%u201dWhile nicotine pouches are marketed as %u201ctobaccofree%u201d and smokeless, they still deliver nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance that can harm the developing brain, raise blood pressure, and increase the risk of heart disease. These products are often flavored and discreet, making them especially appealing to youth.Between 2022 and 2023, youth use of nicotine pouches increased by 36 percent, and their popularity continues to rise among young adults. They are a serious health concern, just like cigarettes and vapes.What can parents do?%u2022 Start the conversation early. Talk openly about the risks of tobacco and nicotine products. Lead by example. If you smoke or vape, consider quitting.%u2022 Create a tobacco- and nicotine-free evironment. Make your home and car substance-free zones. Stay informed. Visit heart.org for resources, quit plans and the latest research.%u2022 Make your voice heard. Sign up as an advocate to support the American Heart Association%u2019s work around tobacco and smoking policy in Alaska at HeartPowered.org.The bottom lineThere%u2019s no such thing as a %u201csafe%u201d tobacco or nicotine product. Whether it%u2019s a cigarette, vape pen, hookah or pouch, these products carry real health risks, especially for young people. Let%u2019s bust the myths and protect the hearts and futures of Alaska%u2019s youth.Source: American Heart Association-AlaskaAlaskaParent.com fall 2025 alaska parent 13