Cohort Profile: The Nicotine Dependence in Teens (NDIT) Study

Area of Science:

• Adolescent health
• Public health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The Nicotine Dependence in Teens (NDIT) study is a prospective cohort investigation.
• Recruited 1294 students in 1999-2000 from Montreal high schools.
• Focused on the natural course and determinants of smoking and nicotine dependence in novice adolescent smokers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the progression of cigarette smoking and nicotine dependence in adolescents.
• To identify key factors influencing smoking behaviors and dependence in teenagers.
• To provide longitudinal data on adolescent smoking from grade 7 through post-graduation.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study design.
• Self-report questionnaires administered every 3 months from grade 7 to 11 (1999-2005).
• Follow-up surveys in 2007-08 and 2011-12 (ages 20 and 24).

Main Results:

• The study has generated 58 publications, 20 manuscripts in preparation, 13 theses, and 111 conference presentations.
• Embedded studies cover obesity, blood pressure, physical activity, diet, genetics, substance use, and mental health.
• Data access is available for academic researchers and students.

Conclusions:

• The NDIT study offers a comprehensive dataset on adolescent smoking and nicotine dependence.
• Findings contribute to understanding the long-term trajectories and determinants of teen smoking.
• The study supports ongoing research in adolescent health and addiction prevention.