A recent survey conducted by DAK-Gesundheit reveals alarming trends concerning nicotine pouch use among German youth, particularly among students aged 16 and 17. According to RTL, the survey indicates approximately one out of every seven teenagers has tried these nicotine bags, with usage increasing more significantly among boys than girls.
The survey conducted across 83 schools and involving 927 classes found 15 percent of students reported having consumed nicotine pouches, which are worrying for health experts due to their addictive nature. Andreas Storm, the DAK chairman, has called for stricter regulations and enhanced monitoring efforts, particularly targeting online shops, to protect children and teenagers.
Nicotine pouches, commonly referred to as 'Pouches,' are small bags filled with nicotine salts and carrier materials. Users place these pouches between their upper lip and gums, allowing nicotine to be absorbed through the mucous membranes. This method can provide effects similar to those experienced from smoking cigarettes without the need to light up. The version containing tobacco, known as 'Snus,' is banned across the EU, except for sale within Sweden.
While the non-tobacco nicotine pouches are categorized under food regulations and technically are prohibited, they remain widely available, often found online or even at convenience stores and gas stations. This availability raises concern among addiction counselors, as the lack of control leads to accessibility for young people.
Storm expressed, "Nicotine pouches are dangerous and can lead to addiction," underscoring the urgency for more effective monitoring and parental education on the risks associated with nicotine products.
The DAK prevention radar highlights socio-economic factors as well: teenagers from lower social backgrounds are more likely to use nicotine pouches compared to their peers from higher social classes. This information points to the need for targeted prevention efforts to address these disparities.
Professor Dr. Reiner Hanewinkel from the Institute for Therapy and Health Research echoed these concerns, emphasizing, "The earlier nicotine addiction begins, the more entrenched it becomes later in life, leading to significant negative health consequences." His insights highlight the necessity of early interventions to prevent the onset of nicotine dependency among youth.
He noted the survey, which spanned 2022 and 2023, involved around 12,700 children and adolescents aged 9 to 17 assessing their health behaviors. The data was collected using questionnaires administered by teachers across multiple classes.
The DAK-Gesundheit is one of Germany's leading health insurance providers, with approximately 5.5 million insured individuals, making it the third-largest health insurance company in the country. Given its wide reach, DAK's findings have sparked discussions about the urgent need for action against the rising trend of nicotine use among youths.
Reactions following the survey results have been strong, with many health officials advocating for measures including stricter online sales regulations, increased public awareness campaigns, and educational programs aimed at both parents and students.
Many experts agree on the importance of involving educators actively, proposing training sessions focused on the risks of nicotine and substance use. Addressing these behaviors early can potentially alter the course for many teenagers and may help mitigate the developing issue.
With all these factors combined, the survey presents not just alarming statistics but calls for action from various sectors of society, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to combat the burgeoning issue of nicotine pouch use among youth.
It is evident from this survey conducted by DAK-Gesundheit and its subsequent reactions, society must prioritize the health of its younger generation. The findings serve as a rallying point for involvement from parents, teachers, and policymakers to safeguard children and adolescents from the dangers of nicotine addiction, ensuring they have the support and information needed to make informed choices.
