Pediatricians urge focus on quitting or never starting tobacco to protect kids.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has released new policy statements on tobacco use, urging pediatricians to focus on quitting or never starting. Despite declining traditional cigarette smoking rates, nearly 200 US children take up smoking every day, and e-cigarette use among children remains high. The AAP recommends screening for tobacco use during regular checkups, referring children to behavioral interventions or nicotine replacement therapy, and raising prices on tobacco products. The AAP also calls for a total flavor ban, including menthol, and urges the FDA to better regulate all tobacco and nicotine products.