Introduction:
Vaping involves using electronic devices, like e-cigarettes, that heat a liquid (often containing nicotine) into an aerosol that's then inhaled. Originally marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, vaping poses serious health risks, especially for children and teenagers.
The American Lung Association reports that most vapes contain nicotine, and even those labeled as “nicotine-free" may still have traces of it. Nicotine is particularly harmful to young, developing brains, which continue to grow until around age 25. Studies from the CDC show that nicotine exposure during adolescence can impair brain development, affecting areas responsible for attention, learning, mood, and impulse control. Teenagers who start vaping are also at higher risk of becoming addicted to nicotine, sometimes even before regular use begins. Additionally, early nicotine use increases the likelihood of future addiction to other substances, including cigarettes.
Besides nicotine, vaping exposes users to a variety of harmful chemicals and metals. According to the American Lung Association, when e-cigarettes heat the liquid inside, toxic substances are released, such as:
Propylene Glycol : Used in antifreeze and paint solvents.
Carcinogens : Chemicals known to cause cancer.
Acrolein : A harmful herbicide that can lead to irreversible lung damage.
Diacetyl : A chemical linked to the lung disease known as "popcorn lung."
Heavy Metals : Including nickel, tin, and lead.
Benzene : A toxic compound found in car exhaust.
Youth Vaping in Sacramento County:
The 2023 California Youth Tobacco Survey reveals alarming statistics:
19% of high school students have tried tobacco products.
1 in 20 students currently use tobacco.
86% of these users are vaping.
Youth Resources:
Parent Resources:
