More than 16.5% of high schoolers and 4.5% of middle schoolers reported tobacco use - 2.5 million youth nationwide - according to the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey. Vapes were reported to be the most used device.
The use of vapes puts teens at risk for tobacco addiction, severe health problems, and even death. It is critical for parents and caregivers to understand the risks of vaping and have meaningful conversations about the dangers with the teens in their life.
Hillsborough County is committed to preventing youth vaping. In 2019, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners voted to ban the sale of vaping devices to anyone under age 21. That commitment expanded in February 2023 when the Board declared a "zoning in progress" to consider an ordinance for a six-month moratorium on the establishment of retail shops within 500 feet of K-12 schools for establishments whose sales of vaping products exceed 20% of their total monthly retail sales. This motion allows time to prepare amendments to the Land Development Code that will regulate such establishments.
What Are Vapes?
Vapes are e-cigarettes, also known as "e-cigs," "e-hookahs," "mods," "vape pens," "vapes," "tank systems," and "electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS)."
Vaping is when you use a handheld electronic device to breathe a mist ("vapor") into your lungs. An e-cigarette, vape pen, or other ENDS heats a liquid of nicotine, flavoring, propylene glycol, and other additives into an aerosol that you inhale through a mouthpiece.
The Risks Associated with Vaping
Nicotine Addiction and Brain Development
Most vapes contain nicotine. Nicotine is highly addictive and can harm adolescent brain development, which continues into the early to mid-20s. Brain changes related to nicotine exposure may have effects on attention, learning, and memory that promote addiction to the drug.
Exposure to Toxic Chemicals and Metal Particles
Other health risks include exposure to toxic chemicals and metal particles-such as lead, chromium, and nickel-that can harm the lungs.
EVALI: A Vaping Use-Associated Lung Injury
EVALI is a vaping use-associated lung injury, with a reported 96% hospitalization rate, and, in some cases, death.
Talking to Kids and Teens About Vaping
The American Lung Association's Vaping Conversation Guide
The American Lung Association offers a Vaping Conversation Guide with best practices for having this discussion with kids and teens. The guide includes steps for what to do before, during, and after your conversation, which include:
Know the facts
Take an open and calm approach
Find the right time and place
Ask for the child's perspective
Connect with what they care about
Help the child manage peer pressure
Follow up
Additional Vaping Information and Resources
Additional vaping information and resources can be found online at the Tobacco Free Florida's Live Vape Free and Students Working Against Tobacco websites.
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Conclusion
Vaping poses significant dangers to the health and well-being of teens. As parents and caregivers, it is our responsibility to educate ourselves and engage in open conversations with our youth about the risks associated with vaping. By working together, we can help protect the future of our children and create a healthier, safer environment for all.
FAQs
Q: What is the most popular vaping device among teens? A: Vapes or e-cigarettes are the most popular vaping devices among teens.
Q: How does nicotine in vapes affect adolescent brain development? A: Nicotine exposure can harm adolescent brain development, affecting attention, learning, and memory, and promoting addiction to the drug.
Q: What are some toxic chemicals and metal particles found in vapes? A: Vapes can contain toxic chemicals and metal particles such as lead, chromium, and nickel, which can harm the lungs.
Q: What is EVALI? A: EVALI is a vaping use-associated lung injury with a high hospitalization rate and, in some cases, can lead to death.
Q: Where can I find resources to help me talk to my child about vaping? A: The American Lung Association's Vaping Conversation Guide and websites like Tobacco Free Florida's Live Vape Free and Students Working Against Tobacco offer resources to help guide your conversation.
