Youth Vaping Prevention
E-cigarettes, also known as vapes or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), have been increasingly more popular among young people in recent years. As a result of this, it is important to understand the facts and health risks associated with these devices to help promote a healthier lifestyle among the youth.
What is an e-cigarette?
The term “vaping” refers to the use of an e-cigarette. E-cigarettes can come in different shapes, colors, and sizes but each device consists of four main parts. The four components work together to heat the e-liquid which contains nicotine, flavorings, and other toxic chemicals to create an aerosol that you inhale.
- Battery
- Heater/atomizer
- Cartridge/tank
- Microprocessor
These devices can also be disposable or made to be refillable mods and pods.
Ingredients
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently has not reviewed the ingredients in an e-cigarette or produced any standards on these products. As a result, the e-cigarette composition can vary as well as the health effects caused from the products. Listed below are just some of the ingredients that can be found in an e-cigarette.
- Nicotine - A highly addictive substance that negatively affects adolescent brain development.
- Propylene Glycol - A common additive in food (approved for consumption, not inhalation), also used to make things like anti-freeze, paint solvent, and artificial smoke in fog machines.
- Diacetyl - A chemical linked to a lung disease called bronchiolitis obliterans aka “Popcorn Lung”.
- Acrolein - A herbicide primarily used to kill weeds, can cause irreversible lung damage.
- Carcinogens - Chemicals known to cause cancer, including acetaldehyde and formaldehyde.
- Cadmium - A toxic metal found in traditional cigarettes that causes breathing problems and disease.
- Heavy metals - Such as nickel, tin, lead.
- Benzene - A volatile organic compound (VOC) found in car exhaust.
Health Effects
E-cigarettes have become a popular alternative to smoking cigarettes in recent years. Though some may view it as a safer option, it is important that we understand that vaping is not without its health risks and not safe for youth at all. Below we will go over the potential health effects associated with vaping:
- Respiratory Health - Vaping involves inhaling an aerosol that carries nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals into the lungs. Frequent use of an e-cigarette can cause symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, developing or worsening bronchitis and asthma.
- Nicotine Addiction - Many e-liquids contain concerningly high levels of nicotine. This can lead to addiction, potential long-term health effects on adolescent brain development, mental health issues like depression and anxiety, and more.
- Cardiovascular Health - Vaping has been associated with an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. This can potentially put individuals at a higher risk for heart related issues in the long term.
- Lung Injuries - E-cigarette juice contains diacetyl, a chemical linked to popcorn lung. Popcorn lung is an irreversible lung disease also known as Bronchiolitis Obliterans. Vaping can also cause symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, respiratory failure, and more.
Always prioritize your health and well-being by making decisions based on reliable information and professional advice.
Vaping and Developing Brains
Using E-cigarettes can cause irreversible damage to young developing brains. Our brains aren’t fully developed until around age 25. By vaping, we aren't allowing our brains to develop in a healthy way and are putting ourselves at risk for mental health issues. Vaping can cause a user to develop anxiety, depression, and stress or worsen those symptoms if they already experience them prior to vaping. Watch the short video below to learn more.
Youth Programs Offered Through SIPH
CATCH My Breath
CATCH My Breath is a free youth vaping prevention program that is designed to empower schools in their efforts to combat the rising trend of youth vaping. This evidence-based program is a great resource in promoting the well-being of students. Through age-appropriate curriculum materials, interactive lessons, and informed discussions, the program equips educators with the resources needed to create meaningful dialogue around this issue. The CATCH My Breath program aims to ensure that students are well-prepared to resist the allure of vaping and make choices that will lead them to a healthier future. This program consists of four lessons and all materials and resources are provided through CATCH.org. CATCH My Breath can be taught by school staff or a health educator from Southeastern Idaho Public Health.
If you are interested in having this program implemented in your school or facility, please contact Jasmin Elnasser at (208) 239-5236 or .
For more information on this program, please visit CATCH.org.
INDEPTH
The INDEPTH program is an alternative program to a suspension or citation for students caught vaping at school. This 4-week initiative focuses on educating and aiding students in quitting vaping. It covers the risks associated with vaping, introduces alternative activities to replace vaping habits, and helps students recognize their behavior and triggers around vaping.
If you are interested in implementing this program, please contact Jasmin Elnasser or Chessie Meyer .
For more information on this program, please visit www.lung.org.
N-O-T Program
The N-O-T (Not On Tobacco) program offers a 10-week course designed for youth determined to quit vaping. This comprehensive program provides essential resources and support for those eager to overcome their vaping habits. Through structured sessions and guidance, participants learn effective strategies to quit vaping, gain access to crucial resources, and receive necessary support to successfully achieve their goal of a vape-free life.
If you are interested in this program, please contact Chessie Meyer at (208) 239-5236 or .
For more information on this program, please visit www.lung.org.
Project Filter – My Life, My Quit
The My Life My Quit program provides a free and confidential support system for teens seeking to quit vaping. This innovative program offers assistance via text or call and ensures a safe space for teens to receive tailored support, resources, and motivation to overcome vaping habits. To enroll in this program, please visit www.mylifemyquit.com.
For further assistance, please contact Marisol Porter at (208) 239-5242 or .
Southeastern Idaho Public Health
Southeastern Idaho Public Health offers free group or 1-on-1 classes to help quit tobacco/vaping through the INDEPTH program. This program is specific to middle and high school students and addresses quitting the use of e-cigarettes, goal setting, social skills, handling stress, and more!
Cessation for Adults
- Expert quit coaches
- Your quit plan
- Free patches, gum, and lozenges
- Control your environment
- eCoach to keep you on track
Please visit projectfilter.org to learn more and register.
