Missouri faces a persistent challenge with teen smoking rates, ranking among the highest in the U.S. However, Kansas City and its surrounding counties have made notable strides in curbing tobacco and vaping use among teenagers.
This progress reflects a combination of advocacy, education, and targeted local initiatives aimed at reducing nicotine addiction among the youth.
Teen Smoking in Missouri: A Worrying Trend
Statewide Statistics
According to the latest data:
- Over 5% of Missouri high school students smoke, placing the state above the national average.
- The 2024 Missouri Student Survey highlights that 2.2% of middle schoolers and 9.1% of high schoolers use tobacco or vape.
These figures are significantly influenced by Missouri’s low cigarette tax rate of 17 cents per pack, the lowest in the nation.
Experts attribute this affordability to the state’s long-standing issues with nicotine addiction, particularly among teens.
The E-Cigarette Epidemic
Missouri had nearly eliminated teen smoking in 2010, with rates below 2%. However, the rise of e-cigarettes in 2016 caused a sharp increase in youth nicotine use, peaking in 2018.
While smoking rates have declined since 2020, the popularity of flavored vaping products remains a concern.
Kansas City’s Progress in Fighting Teen Smoking
County-Level Improvements
Kansas City has shown progress in reducing teen tobacco and vaping use across key counties:
- Jackson County: 1.7% of students report using tobacco, while 7.6% vape.
- Clay County: Tobacco use is at 1.3%, with vaping rates at 4.7%.
- Platte County: Tobacco and vaping rates are the lowest, at 1.1% and 3.6%, respectively.
These figures highlight a steady decline in nicotine use among teens, significantly lower than state averages.
Educational Efforts
Local organizations and schools in Kansas City have emphasized prevention education, teaching students about the dangers of nicotine addiction. Key strategies include:
- Normalizing non-use: Messaging that most students don’t vape or smoke helps create positive peer pressure.
- Collaborating with retailers: Some stores have moved flavored nicotine products away from prominent displays and limited discounts on tobacco items.
Challenges in Statewide Regulation
Lack of a Tobacco21 Law
Missouri does not have a statewide law requiring tobacco buyers to be at least 21 years old. Although cities like Kansas City, Independence, and Lee’s Summit have adopted Tobacco21 ordinances, gaps remain in areas where younger individuals can still purchase nicotine products.
Flavored Nicotine Products
Flavored nicotine and tobacco products remain a major driver of teen use. While the Kansas City Council has debated banning flavored products, no such legislation has been passed. Experts argue that these flavors make nicotine products particularly attractive to teens.
Innovative Cessation Resources
Kansas City has embraced accessible solutions to help teens quit nicotine, including:
- 24/7 support: Online groups, phone support, and text-to-quit services provide constant access to resources.
- State Quitline: The 1-800-QUIT-NOW hotline offers assistance to individuals in both Kansas and Missouri, connecting them with tools to quit smoking or vaping.
| Region | Tobacco Use (%) | Vaping (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri (State) | 2.2% (Middle), 9.1% (High) | 9.1% |
| Jackson County | 1.7% | 7.6% |
| Clay County | 1.3% | 4.7% |
| Platte County | 1.1% | 3.6% |
A Path Forward for Missouri
Tax Increases on Cigarettes
Missouri lawmakers are considering raising the cigarette tax to 27 cents per pack, which could discourage youth from purchasing tobacco products. While still far below the national average, even a small increase may reduce affordability for teens.
Advocacy for Comprehensive Laws
Experts argue that a statewide Tobacco21 law and a ban on flavored nicotine products would significantly curb teen usage. Advocacy groups continue to push for these measures to protect Missouri’s youth.
Missouri’s teen smoking rates remain higher than most states, driven by low taxes and the prevalence of flavored nicotine products.
However, Kansas City is setting a positive example through education, advocacy, and local initiatives. With reduced rates in Clay, Platte, and Jackson Counties, the metro area demonstrates that progress is possible.
By implementing statewide policies like Tobacco21 and raising cigarette taxes, Missouri can take meaningful steps to combat its teen smoking epidemic and ensure a healthier future for its youth.