Local advocacy group recognized for tackling teen nicotine addiction

MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) - A Mankato advocacy group is being recognized for its work fighting teen nicotine addiction.

The Nicotine-Free Greater Mankato Coalition was recognized Wednesday by the Minnesota Department of Health for their efforts, receiving the Rural Health Team Award.

The group was instrumental in local policy changes such as raising the age for buying nicotine to 21 and is currently working toward legislation that limits flavored nicotine products.

“It’s getting easier and easier for kids to get these vapes and they’re more and more addicting and more appealing,” Dr. Katie Smentek of the Mankato Clinic, who is part of the organization, said. “My daughter just sent me something she saw on Instagram that a vape was shaped like a banana. Why does it need to be shaped like a banana? It doesn’t. So you can see what they’re trying to do.“

The group said that 14% of teens use nicotine, and that the battle against underage addiction is an ever evolving one.

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