The Dangers of Vaping

 Vaping is using an electronic cigarette, also known as an e-cigarette or a vape pen, to inhale and exhale the vapor from heated nicotine liquid. It’s a popular and often misrepresented activity among teens and preteens. The act of vaping is sometimes referred to as JUULing, which is a trademarked term used by the JUUL company.

E-cigarettes are small battery-powered devices that look like a regular cigarette. They heat up the flavored nicotine liquid to create an aerosol (or mist) that is inhaled, or “vaped.” The liquid inside can contain nicotine, but also flavorings, metals and other chemicals. Some studies show that these chemicals can harm the body and mind, especially in adolescents.

The FDA has warned that the vapor produced by a JUUL or other device can contain toxins and heavy metals including nickel, lead, arsenic and benzopyrenes. These toxins can cause lung damage and other health problems including inflammation, scarring, narrowing of the tubes that bring air in and out of the lungs, and chronic coughing and shortness of breath. In addition, the chemical diacetyl found in some flavorings can cause a serious lung condition called bronchiolitis obliterans or popcorn lung, which can lead to permanent lung damage. The chemicals can hurt the heart and blood vessels and cause other breathing problems, like wheezing, chest pain and nausea. Nicotine is an addictive drug that can change the way your brain works, making it hard to stop smoking or vaping. It can also increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Some e-cigarettes have as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes, so even just one vape can put you at risk of addiction and other serious health problems.

There is growing support for stricter rules around the advertising and packaging of vaping products. Experts call for plain packaging and health warnings, just like tobacco, and for shops to be forced to keep them behind the counter and out of reach of teenagers. One study led by King’s College London and Action on Smoking and Health found that removing branding from e-cigarettes reduced their appeal to teenagers.

Vape companies insist they’re not marketing to teens and say their products are safer than traditional combustible cigarettes. But critics point to the use of youthful images and colors, animation and actors who appear to be under 21 as evidence that they’re targeting kids.

If you or someone you know is a vaper, try to quit using them for good. Ask your doctor, therapist or school counselor about free resources that can help. They may suggest things like apps, online or texting services, sugar-free gum and water, and distractions that can help you stay smoke- and vape-free, such as taking a walk or jog or visiting places where vaping isn’t allowed. Stick with your plan to quit, and remember that withdrawal symptoms are strongest in the first few days after you stop, but they will get better over time. Keep in touch with supportive friends and family.