National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS)

Summary

The National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS) is an annual school-based survey that gathers information about tobacco use from students in grades 6 through 12 across the U.S. It includes a set of core questions about students’ tobacco-related behaviors, attitudes toward tobacco, and exposure to both pro- and anti-tobacco messages. The survey uses a sampling method designed to ensure results are nationally representative. NYTS was first conducted in 1999 and continued sporadically between 1999 and 2011. From 2012-2024, the FDA and CDC collaborated on the survey to collect data annually and for analysis and dissemination of findings. In 2025, the survey transferred to FDA.

Agency	HHS, FDA, CTP
Related Agency	HHS, CDC
Data Checkup

Historical Data Availability

No Known Issue

In 2025, following the Reduction in Force that affected the CDC's Office on Smoking and Health, responsibility for the NYTS was transferred from the CDC to the FDA. Historical NYTS data files and documentation remain available on the CDC NYTS website. Beginning with the 2024 survey cycle, NYTS data files, documentation, and future releases will be available through the FDA NYTS website.

Future Data Availability

No Known Issue

Data Quality

No Known Issue

Statutory Context

Moderate Risk

While not explicitly required, the NYTS is considered essential for fulfilling the FDA's statutory mandates under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act of 2009.

Staffing and Funding

Moderate Risk

While CDC's Office on Smoking and Health previously managed the NYTS, the entire office was impacted by the 2025 Reduction in Force and responsibility for survey oversight was transferred to the FDA's Center for Tobacco Products. The FDA Center for Tobacco Products experienced substantial workforce reductions in FY2025, although most affected staff were reinstated in early 2026. However, the loss of institutional knowledge associated with the elimination of CDC's Office on Smoking and Health may affect survey oversight and implementation.

Policy

High Risk

In October 2025, the ICR submission reflects the removal of references to sexual identity, sexual orientation, and discrimination in response to Trump Administration executive orders. Additionally, responsibility for the NYTS was transferred from the CDC to the FDA in 2025. While the impact of this transition remains unclear, the FDA has assumed responsibility for future administration and publication of the survey.

Last updated: 2026-07-15

Details

Related ICRs
OMB Control Number	0910-0932
Authorizing Statutes	42 USC 241

Reference Number	Title	Agency	Status	Request Type
202506-0910-008	National Youth Tobacco Surveys 2024 2026	HHS/FDA	Active	Revision of a currently approved collection
202510-0910-002	National Youth Tobacco Surveys 2024 2026	HHS/FDA	Active	No material or nonsubstantive change to a currently approved collection