A flurry of media attention has made vape, or electronic nicotine delivery systems, popular among teens. But what’s the truth about these devices and how does it impact kids’ health? This week we’re looking at the vape trend to help you understand its appeal to youth, what research says about its risks and what you can do to prevent your kids from using.
Vape is the use of an e-cigarette or other electronic device to inhale and exhale the mist produced by heating the nicotine liquid in the device (often referred to as “juice”). It’s also commonly called JUULing, which comes from the brand name of a popular e-cigarette. The vapor is often flavored, which adds to its appeal to kids who are drawn to flavors like mango, cucumber and creme. Many people assume that because it doesn’t produce smoke or ash, vaping is safer than traditional cigarette smoking. But the truth is that e-cigarettes can cause serious health problems.
Studies show that the chemicals and metals in e-cigarettes can cause lung damage. And even though e-cigarettes don’t contain the carcinogens found in cigarettes, they still can contain toxic heavy metals and the chemical acetone, which can irritate the skin and eyes. Those chemicals are then inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause cancer over time.
The CDC’s latest data shows that the use of vapes among middle and high school students has dropped since 2020, but it could simply be because kids were stuck at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Regardless of why, the trend is still concerning because nicotine is addictive and the long-term damage can be severe.
It’s important for parents to talk with their kids about vaping and its dangers. Start by asking if their friends vape, what they think about it and whether they think it’s healthy or not. This is usually a much more effective approach than telling them directly that it’s wrong.
Ask your child’s doctor or therapist for advice on how to have this discussion. They can offer tips for how to approach it and suggest free resources that can help you and your child quit using vape products.
While most kids who vape claim to do it for fun, there is a growing concern that some may be becoming addicted to the nicotine in e-cigarettes. In addition to addiction, there are also concerns about vaping and brain development in young children.
If your child is already using an ENDS product, ask your healthcare provider or therapist for advice on how to quit and for support. They can help you find free online, texting and phone services that can help you stick to your plan.
Most importantly, don’t forget to get plenty of exercise, which can be an excellent distraction from the urge to vape. It can also improve your overall health and help you cope with stress. You can learn more about vaping and what to do if you need help quitting on the FDA’s website. vape