Recent surveys show adolescent vaping has plummeted to under 6%, the lowest rate in ten years, thanks in part to stricter age restrictions and enhanced enforcement against illegal sales. While middle school vaping remains steady, the decline in high-nicotine e-cigarette use signals progress in curbing a trend that peaked in 2019, although flavored products still dominate the market.
The tragic case of 17-year-old Coco, who died after purchasing a counterfeit pill laced with fentanyl via Instagram, highlights the growing dangers of drug access through social media. As fentanyl overdoses become a leading cause of death among minors, experts urge stronger accountability from platforms like TikTok and Meta to prevent further tragedies in an era where illicit drugs are just a few clicks away.