Adolescent vaping continues to rise

By Olivia Ramsey Staff Writer

Vaping has become increasingly popular among teens and young adults, with many considering it a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes. However, studies have shown that vaping and other nicotine products can be just as harmful, if not more, than traditional cigarettes.

The harmful effects of nicotine on teens and young adults have become a cause for immediate concern, with health officials urging them to quit.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 38.9% of high school students and 17.3% of middle school students reported using electronic cigarettes or other vaping products in 2020.

This marks a significant increase from previous years and highlights the growing trend of teens and young adults using these products.

Vaping raises concerns due to its potential to expose users, particularly young people, to high levels of nicotine.

Nicotine, a highly addictive substance, can have detrimental effects on the brain, impeding cognitive function, memory, attention, and behavior, primarily due to its potential to disrupt brain development.

Additionally, it can lead to addiction, making it challenging for young individuals to quit using vaping products.

Vaping products often contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein, which can cause damage to the lungs and respiratory system. Inhaling these chemicals can lead to serious health problems, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer.

The harmful effects of nicotine and vaping have been highlighted in recent years by a growing number of cases of lung injuries associated with vaping.

In 2019, the CDC reported over 2,500 cases of e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI), including 55 deaths. The majority of these cases involved young people aged 18 to 34.

Apart from the health hazards associated with nicotine and vaping, these products can also inflict adverse social and economic effects on young people. Nicotine addiction can cause financial burdens and can make it challenging to sustain social relationships.

Several e-cigarette and large vape firms have advertised the “no-smell” attribute to attract users who feel conscious about the stigmatization of cigarette smokers for their apparent odor and discomfort caused by the residue. In contrast, vaping users may exhibit similar inconsideration with clouds of vapor and bright, flashing lights that can be inappropriate for social or public settings.

Multiple resources are available for young people who desire to stop using nicotine products.

The CDC offers several resources, including a Quitline for teens that furnishes support and guidance to individuals who want to quit. Furthermore, numerous colleges and universities provide resources such as counseling and support groups for students who wish to quit using nicotine.

CSUSB’s Health Center may be able to direct students to resources, workshops, or specialists who are ready to listen and help those struggling with addiction.

Recognizing that quitting nicotine products can be challenging, particularly for young people who have developed an addiction, is a crucial step to moving forward and changing such an addiction. Support and resources are available for those who are struggling.

Additionally, the benefits of quitting can include improved health, financial stability, and better overall quality of life. With the appropriate help and support, it is possible to quit nicotine products.

Several media outlets are making helpful resources available to those who are trying to quit. Truth.org, shown on MTV, is a remarkable example of such a resource. The organization tries to specifically target its audience through the well-liked network with viewers aged 18-34.

Additionally, Betterdaystreatment.com provides access to support for quitting vapes and nicotine.

The increase in vaping among teens and college students is concerning, and the evidence and statistics demonstrate that e-cigarettes and nicotine use can be harmful to young people. Urgent action is necessary to address this issue and encourage young people to quit nicotine products before it is too late. The health and well-being of our youth depend on the immediacy of our actions.