AAP

AAP 2024: Social media trend 'chroming' on the rise among minors

October 1, 2024

Nearly 40% of TikTok videos featuring “chroming” are created by minors, raising alarms about the platform’s role in promoting dangerous behaviors, according to new research presented during the recent American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference and Exhibition.

Researchers analyzed the top 400 TikTok videos tagged #huffing and #chroming to understand the prevalence and nature of chroming content. They collected data on the perceived gender and age of video creators, items used for chroming, meme information, and repeated usage.

Out of 109 videos meeting the inclusion criteria, 39% were created by minors and 52% referenced repeated usage or addiction. The most common chroming items were markers (31%), air dusters (17%), and nail polish (12%). Additionally, 70% of the videos were memes, often normalizing chroming behavior among youth. Authors say the findings highlight the urgent need for social media platforms to enhance content moderation and underscores the importance of pediatricians discussing the dangers of inhalant abuse with caregivers and patients.

Source:

(2024, September 27). American Academy of Pediatrics. Dangerous practice ‘chroming’ featured in videos on social media platform popular among youth. [News release]. https://www.aap.org/en/news-room/news-releases/aap/2024/dangerous-practice-chroming-featured-in-videos-on-social-media-platform-popular-among-youth/