Addressing the Influence of Nicotine Through Local Policies

Reducing the Toll of Tobacco Use in Burlington

Research shows that reducing promotion, easy access, and the normalization of substances in communities can help reduce high-risk use and the development of substance use disorders, particularly for adolescents. It matters because the earlier youth start using substances, the more likely they are to develop problems with substance use. This month we wanted to focus on why this and other negative impacts from tobacco use in Vermont are important for our community to address.

Youth-Oriented Tobacco Products

The tobacco industry has been rolling out a lot of new products in recent years that are hooking a new generation of users on nicotine. The rise of use of nicotine pouches like Zyn, On!, and Velo highlights the urgent need for stronger local regulations to protect youth in Burlington. Zyn is one brand of highly concentrated nicotine pouches that are often marketed as a discreet and flavorful alternative to traditional tobacco products. They often have bright packaging and flavors designed to appeal to young people, marketing tactics the tobacco industry has been using for a long time. However, the high nicotine content poses serious risks to developing brains, including the potential for addiction, impaired attention and learning, and increased symptoms of anxiety and depression. The design also makes it easier for youth to use undetected, increasing its potential for misuse.  Our coalition Director Mariah Flynn had this to say, “In November I participated in a community cleanup event in the hill section of Burlington. The most common type of trash I picked up other than cigarettes were discarded nicotine pouches. It was a distressing sign of how popular these are becoming in our area.” 

The Role of Policy in Preventing Youth Use

Policy changes that help limit youth exposure are the first step to prevent tobacco-related diseases and reduce tobacco use among youth. Limiting youth exposure to tobacco promotion, especially those glamorizing products marketed to young people like nicotine pouches and vaping devices, is key in reducing their appeal. Communities help with this by advocating for local and state-level policies that restrict advertising and accessibility for youth and limiting the density of stores that sell these products. Studies have consistently demonstrated that children are more likely to use tobacco when they live or go to school in neighborhoods with a high density of tobacco retailers. Tobacco companies have also targeted low-income neighborhoods and communities of color with predatory marketing and retail practices. Prioritizing health over industry profits strategies helps ensure a future less burdened by the consequences of tobacco use.

Thank You to the Healthy Burlington Work Group 

In December 2023 we began bringing together local stakeholders to look at ways to strengthen policies and protections in Burlington to support youth and health. This Healthy Burlington Workgroup looked at Burlington data on youth substance use rates and community factors such as accessibility of alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis. We looked at what research says are the best strategies to reduce youth substance use and make it easier for everyone to make healthy decisions around substance use.  Partners shared examples of how they are seeing substance use impact the lives of the youth and families they work with, and in their own Burlington neighborhoods. Together we have been working on a set of recommendations to improve policy and increase protective factors in our community to help youth thrive. Stay tuned for for information about our upcoming Community Forums to have your own voices heard on these issues.

The Burlington Partnership for a Healthy Community extends our sincere gratitude to all the community partners who have contributed their time, expertise, and commitment to coming together each month to move forward this critical work. Particularly, Mahat Abdullahi, Chad Butt, Samuel Dingba, Dr. L.E. Faricy, Erika Linskey, Reagan Murphy, Nicholas Tatakis, and Mona Tolba. Together, we are creating a healthier, more resilient Burlington.