E-cigarettes, otherwise known as electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), are becoming a popular device among both teens and adults. However, many of them do not realize that e-cigarettes are not a safe alternative to traditional cigarette smoking.
To further your understanding of the details and dangers associated with e-cigarettes, refer to the follow list of frequently asked questions.
What is Vaping?
Rather than inhaling tobacco smoke from a cigarette, e-cigarettes enable their users to inhale the vapor from e-juice liquid warmed by a battery-powered coil. Known as “vaping,” this method features juice containing chemicals, nicotine, and added flavorings.
Is Vaping Addictive?
E-Cigarettes are addictive and can inhibit brain growth and disperse harmful smoke into developing lungs. While long-term health effects on users are still unknown, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourages implementing measures to prevent children and teenagers from exposure to e-cigarettes vapor, and to deter them from using e-cigarettes.
Are e-cigarette devices safe to use?
No, the substances in e-cigarettes and their vapor include dangerous chemicals such as anti-freeze, diethylene glycol, and nitrosamines, which have the potential to cause cancer. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not authorized vaping as a means of quitting smoking. Since there is no regulation by the FDA, the chemical substances in e-cigarettes can vary, depending on the brand.
What Risks Does Vaping Pose to Adolescents?
- With nearly one in four high school students reporting e-cigarettes usage in 2015, e-cigarettes are the most frequently utilized tobacco product among adolescents.
- E-cigarettes feature a variety of flavored liquid substances, which are particularly attractive to kids and teens. Flavors such as piña colada, peach, bubble gum, and chocolate are a large part of the appeal of vaping to adolescents and children.
- Teenagers and children who use e-cigarettes are at an increased risk for developing traditional smoking habits in the future. Even children who vape only once in their lifetimes are at a higher risk.
- Kids who vape even once are more likely to try other types of tobacco. Their developing brains get hooked more easily, according to a recent study.
- Teens and children are vulnerable to advertisements for e-cigarettes on social media platforms and television advertisements, as well as in publications and on billboards.
- While it is against the law for companies to sell e-cigarettes to individuals under the age of 18, adolescents can easily order these vaping devices online.
The information and content on our website should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or advice from your doctor.
Model/stock photo above.
