According to the CDC, roughly 9 in 10 youth (grades 6-12) who reported using tobacco products used flavored varieties, including menthol. Most smokers begin in adolescence or young adulthood, and research shows that youth are more likely to try menthol cigarettes as their first cigarette.

Tobacco companies add menthol to cigarettes to make them seem less harsh and more appealing to youth. Additionally, menthol enhances the addictive effects of nicotine on the brain, which makes it even more difficult to quit smoking.

Calvert County Health Department holds Saturday Anti Vape Education Sessions once a month, free to all middle and high school students.  Students are encouraged to attend if caught vaping or if they want more information on how to quit. Please see the image for more information.