Vaping is using a battery-powered device to inhale an aerosol that may contain nicotine, cannabis (marijuana), or flavorings. It is popular among teens. The devices are easy to hide, come in a variety of appealing flavors and are often less expensive than cigarettes. They have gained popularity because of the belief that they are safer than regular cigarettes and offer the user a way to avoid the smoke while still enjoying tobacco flavorings. They also are much more discreet than traditional cigarette smoking, which is easily noticed by others.
The FDA has determined that e-cigarettes and their liquid solutions are tobacco products and are therefore subject to the same laws and regulations. The agency has categorized them as such because they deliver nicotine, a chemical that is addictive. Additionally, the devices can contain other harmful chemicals that are known to cause lung damage, such as metals and carcinogens. The FDA has raised the legal age to purchase them to 21 years, banned advertisements that promote them and began a process of restricting access to flavored cartridges that appeal to young people.
It is important for parents, teachers and youth leaders to talk with the young people in their lives about the dangers of e-cigarettes and vaping. While the conversation can be difficult, the onus is not solely on parents to educate their children, says Dr. Taskiran, but they should know how to start the dialogue. He suggests starting with a simple question, such as “What do you think of vaping?”
Many teen vapers don’t realize that the devices they use, often called vapes or e-cigarettes, actually contain nicotine, which is addictive. They are marketed with alluring advertising and various flavored e-liquids that often look like candy or fruit, so kids may not be aware they contain the substance. They are also easy to hide, and teens can buy them in the same places where they get their phones or school supplies.
In addition, most teen vapers don’t realize that there is a risk of exposure to dangerous metals and carcinogens in the vapor they inhale when using their devices. The vapor also contains ultra-fine particles that can cause irritation and inflammation to delicate lungs.
A vape consists of a mouthpiece that holds the e-liquid, usually called e-juice or e-liquid solution, a small piece of absorbent material that is saturated with the liquid and placed inside a container known as a clearomizer or cartomizer; a tiny heating element, known as an atomizer; and a rechargeable battery that powers everything. Upon inhalation, the atomizer heats the liquid and creates the aerosol that is then inhaled.
Nicotine is toxic to the lungs and can harm brain development. It can also lead to other illicit drug use and cause health problems such as heart disease, lung damage and a weakened immune system. The best way to prevent these issues is to not begin vaping in the first place. It’s possible to quit, and resources are available for those who want to quit. vape