MCHD warns nicotine addictive and harmful; especially for teens 07-10-26
July 10, 2026
MCHD warns nicotine addictive and harmful; especially for teens
MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile County Health Department (MCHD) is reminding residents that nicotine is the addictive substance in cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, most e-cigarettes, and nicotine pouches, and that it is not safe at any age. Nicotine quickly leads to addiction and can increase the risk of heart disease, breathing problems, and other health issues.
“Nicotine is the drug that makes tobacco products addictive,” said Kevin Michaels, MD, Health Officer for Mobile County. “When teens use nicotine – whether through vaping, smoking, or nicotine pouches – it can change how their brains develop and make it much harder to quit later in life.”
Why nicotine is addictive
Nicotine acts on parts of the brain that control pleasure, reward, and impulse control, causing the release of dopamine and training the brain to crave more. Research shows nicotine can be as addictive as other drugs such as cocaine or heroin, which is why many people find it very difficult to stop once they start.
Withdrawal from nicotine can cause irritability, anxiety, concentration, and strong cravings, all of which can pull people back into using tobacco or vaping even when they want to quit.
Teen brain development
Human brain development continues into the mid-20s, and nicotine exposure during adolescence can disrupt normal maturation of areas involved in learning, memory, decision making, and emotional regulation. Studies show that nicotine use in teens can lead to lasting changes in brain connectivity and may increase the risk of attention problems, impulse control issues, and later substance use.
Because of these risks, national health agencies advise that youth, young adults, and pregnant women avoid all nicotine products.
Health effects beyond the brain
Nicotine use increases heart rate and blood pressure, contributing to a higher risk of heart attack and stroke over time. It can damage lung tissue, impair immune function, and worsen conditions like asthma and chronic bronchitis, even when delivered through smokeless products or vaping.
Nicotine exposure during pregnancy can harm maternal and fetal health, increasing the risk of low birth weight, preterm delivery, and stillbirth. In high doses, nicotine can be poisonous, especially to young children who may accidentally ingest e-cigarette liquids or concentrated nicotine products.
Support to quit
MCHD encourages anyone who uses nicotine products to seek help in quitting. Free assistance is available through the Alabama Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) and through local health providers. Quitting nicotine at any age improves health and reduces the risk of future disease, but keeping children and teens from starting is especially important for lifelong health.