The Dangers of Vaping
Using vaping devices causes harmful, even deadly, effects to all users. A large majority of concern is associated with the use of flavored e-cigarettes with minors under the age of 18.
Over growing concern of public health related to flavored e-cigarettes, states such as New York, Michigan, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and California have enacted a statewide ban or city bans on the products. Making the sale and use of these products temporarily illegal until further legislation is passed making the use and distribution illegal by federal law.
Who is at risk
According to the FDA, some 3.6 million people are said to be using vaping devices in the United States. Of the 3.6 million, 576,000 are adolescents and parents are urging them to quit amid the recent health concerns. According to the CDC, approximately 70% of the American population that uses e-cigarettes is male and 16% are under the age of 18.
Ms. Marianne Kusbit, the Good Counsel School Nurse, feels that, “the flavored nicotine products were designed to attract teenage consumption.” Major e-cigarette companies like JUUL are no longer selling certain flavored nicotine products. That have especially attracted the use of minors because of their fruity taste/smell.
“Vaping pens can contain toxic elements which can be harmful to your lungs and overall health,”
— Mrs. Kusbit, School Nurse
Nicotine is the primary ingredient in both regular cigarettes and e-cigarettes, and it is highly addictive. Surrounding yourself with vape-free people is a great way to become and stay vape-free.
If you hear of someone using vaping devices in or out of school, you should stay clear of them to avoid disciplinary action or the temptation to use. Good Counsel Disciplinary Action in regards to tobacco/vaping includes up to dismissal from the school. According to the GC Handbook, students will also, “be required to obtain a drug/alcohol use/abuse assessment from a licensed assessor/counselor within a two week period following the infraction.”
Dangerous effects
At least 19 people in the United States have died from illnesses linked to e-cigarettes and more than 1,000 others have suffered from lung injuries related to vaping.
“Vaping pens can contain toxic elements which can be harmful to your lungs and overall health,” said Ms. Marianne Kusbit.
According to “Know The Risks,” the inside contents of vape cartridges can contain heavy metals such as nickel, tin, lead, and volatile organic compounds like flavorant diacetyl that have been linked to serious lung disease.
Resources to Fight Addiction
Vaping is an addition. Any addition requires assistance to quit the habit and psycho-biological need.
If you are using nicotine products or know anyone using these products, we encourage you to visit this Montgomery County web-page about vaping.
CDC Statistics and facts about vaping
More information about this epidemic
Image credit: https://www.ecigclick.co.uk/
