Emerging Trends

The Family Guide Web site's series focuses on new trends that have potential for abuse, dependence, and subsequent health problems among young people. Check out Emerging Trends for the latest information.

The Latest Craze-Marijuana-Flavored Candy?
A new product on the market may make parents double check the candy bowl. It's marijuana-flavored candy, and it already could be in stores near you. It may look like a normal lollipop or candy bar, but it tastes like pot.

Flavored Cigarettes May Lure Teens
Fewer teens are smoking cigarettes, but new tobacco products are clouding the picture. Tobacco companies say fruit- and mint-flavored cigarettes are aimed at getting adult smokers to switch brands. However, these products have sparked claims that tobacco makers are also targeting youth.1 While the debate goes on, parents can help guard their kids against the allure of sweet flavors and slick marketing.

Meth: America's Homegrown Drug Epidemic
Created in neighborhoods across the country, methamphetamine (meth) is American's homegrown drug epidemic. It's sweeping the Nation from the California coast to the eastern seaboard. Meth is leaving a path of destruction, particularly among small towns, where youth are more than twice as likely to use the drug than young people living in larger cities.