Smoking was supposed to be fading away. Why are young people embracing it again?
Smoking rates remain low, but experts say social media, stress and shifting attitudes could be fueling a cigarette revival
Young people are embracing cigarette smoking again, despite the well-established dangers and declining rates among older generations. Experts attribute this resurgence to various factors, including the influence of social media, stress, and changing attitudes towards smoking.
Gen Z, defined as individuals born between 1997 and 2012, are entering the workforce and young adulthood. While data shows a significant decline in smoking rates among this generation—currently around 10% of Americans are smokers—some experts are concerned about a potential comeback. This shift is fueled by the glamorization of cigarettes on social media platforms and their presence in popular culture, particularly on TikTok, Twitch, and Instagram.
Influencers known as "cigfluencers" have gained popularity by showcasing themselves smoking, often posing in a way that appears cool and attractive. This imagery, combined with the general decline in smoking rates among older generations, has created a vibe shift that has rekindled interest in smoking among younger individuals.
Experts warn that the data on smoking rates may lag behind the current trends, making it difficult to quantify the extent of the resurgence. The glamorization of smoking in media and the influence of social media are seen as key drivers behind this phenomenon.
Written by urgent.news from Scientific American's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
