About Underage Tobacco Use
Youth Smoking Facts
Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Missouri. Missouri youth use tobacco and nicotine products at rates higher than the national average.
- Nearly 24% of Missouri teens have tried cigarettes (14% national)
- 41% of Missouri teens have tried vaping
- 1 out of 3 9th and 10th graders have tried vaping
- Half of 11th and 12th graders have tried vaping
- 21% currently vape (16% national)
- 6% currently smoke. (YRBSS, 2023)
Most Missourians who use tobacco started before they were 18 years old. Over half of Missourians who smoke try to quit each year (BRFSS, 2023). Because it is often difficult to stop smoking, preventing youth from ever starting and offering cessation resources youth is key to reducing tobacco use in Missourians of all ages. Use the resources below to learn more about how to protect Missouri youth from tobacco addiction.
Youth Tobacco Use Prevention
Young people throughout the state are involved in several programs to prevent smoking among youth in Missouri. For more information about the consequences of smoking and tobacco on health, visit the Department of Health and Senior Services website.