Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) is launching “Ditch the Cloud,” a new youth-focused vaping prevention campaign designed to raise awareness about the health risks of vaping and help young people make informed decisions about nicotine use. While e-cigarette use among youth has declined in recent years, vaping remains an ongoing public health concern. National data show that 95% of smokers start before the age of 21. In 2024, the Suburban Cook County Youth Risk Behavioral Survey found 8.5% of Cook County students in the ninth through 12th grades reported current e-cigarette use, down from 16% in 2022.  Conversations with suburban Cook County youth ages 12 to 24 were conducted in 2026 to better understand why young people start vaping, quit vaping, or choose never to vape, as well as their perceptions of vaping. Insights from these discussions helped shape the campaign. Ditch the Cloud also connects youth to free, confidential cessation resources. Young people interested in quitting nicotine can text “Start My Quit” to 36072.  To learn more about vaping prevention and access campaign resources, visit www.ditch-vaping.com

Photo Credit: Cook County Department of Public Health