Tobacco and Nicotine Use in the United States Army Trainee Soldier’s Environment

Tobacco and nicotine use rates within the United States military population are high, and rates among young trainee soldiers are not improving over time. Trainee soldiers are heavily influenced by role models in their environment, and nicotine product use rates in this environment has not previously been evaluated. This study found that over 30% of non-trainee U.S. Army soldiers, known as cadre, within the training environment use nicotine products. For the young trainee soldier, this creates an initial Army experience that continues to foster a culture of tobacco and nicotine use. We urge changes in Army tobacco and nicotine policy to protect the vulnerable trainee soldier population.