SearchEverything You Need to Know About Vaping Vaping has been rising in popularity ever since the initial distribution of vape devices over ten years ago. Today, these devices and their potential dangers raise concerns in scientists and parents of teenagers alike. There are two main types of vapes: e-cigarettes and marijuana vape pens.
While both nicotine and THC can be inhaled from similar devices, these types of vapes have very different effects. When it comes to vaping, it’s natural to have a few questions. Is vaping harmful? Which type of vaping is worse? What is in a vaping device? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the vaping epidemic.
What Is the Vaping Epidemic?
It’s important to note that the vaping epidemic refers not to the act of vaping itself, but to the distribution and purchase of vape products like Juuls. This outbreak has been continuing at a steady pace since 2007, when vape devices first started to see some popularity. However, it is difficult to determine exactly how or why the epidemic began.
The vaping epidemic refers to the effects that are caused after someone uses a vape product. These devices have been reported to cause many cases of lung injury, which can ultimately result in permanent damage or death. The main reason that this epidemic and its risks cause so much concern is that vape devices are most commonly used by teenagers. These teenagers may not be aware of the consequences of vaping, so it’s important to inform them of the risks.
8 Things You Need to Know About the Vaping Epidemic
Since many scientists and doctors still have a lot to learn about the vaping epidemic, there are many questions floating around about the issue. So we’re here to separate the rumors from the facts and tell you eight things you should know about the vaping epidemic.
- Many of the people who have gotten sick or got lung injuries from vaping report having smoked from a marijuana vape pen.
- The problem with marijuana vape pens is not the THC itself, it’s what the THC is combined with. Sometimes, counterfeit pens can be created by mixing THC with untested oils to dilute the product. The faulty vape pens are frequently sold on the black market or distributed to teenagers illegally.
- Juul devices are the main reason that the vaping pandemic exists. The way they are designed, marketed, and distributed greatly contributes to their increasing consumption.
- Many THC vaping products have not been evaluated by the FDA since marijuana is still considered illegal in the US.
- Many vaping products are created with fruity & floral flavors and are then advertised on social media. Because of the advertising practices, it is believed that vaping devices are marketed to teens and young people.
- Most teens who use e-cigarettes have never previously consumed tobacco or nicotine.
- Since many people who use e-cigarettes don’t typically know what is in them, they could be exposing themselves to harmful substances. According to the Truth Initiative, a majority of individuals who smoke e-cigarettes don’t even know they contain nicotine.
- There is not much research behind how safe or unsafe e-cigarettes are in comparison to tobacco cigarettes.
How to Protect Youth From the Epidemic
Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee that young people will not use vaping devices. While certain states have banned or tried to ban certain vape devices for years, not many of the policies have stuck. The key to ending the epidemic and protecting the health of our youth is to identify then eliminate the sources of contaminated vaping pods or cartridges.
Until the FDA is able to truly crack down on the sale and distribution of vaping products, all we can do is discuss the dangers of the epidemic to our children in a calm and understanding manner. If you have discovered that your teen is vaping and you’d like to know how to approach the situation, contact our team of addiction and substance experts by visiting us here or calling 267.719.8689.
