Menu
Vaping/E-Cigarettes
What We Know
Based on an expert review of over 800 peer-reviewed scientific studies:
-
E-cigarettes are a gateway to smoking among youth.
“There is substantial evidence that e-cigarette use by youth and young adults increases their risk of ever using conventional cigarettes.” -
They are addictive!
“There is substantial evidence that e-cigarette use results in symptoms of dependence on e-cigarettes." -
They are toxic.
"There is conclusive evidence that in addition to nicotine, most e-cigarettes contain and emit numerous potentially toxic substances.” -
Secondhand vapor/aerosol is toxic. It’s NOT just water vapor!
“There is conclusive evidence that e-cigarette use increases airborne concentrations of particulate matter and nicotine in indoor environments compared with background levels. -
They can cause serious injury.
“There is conclusive evidence that e-cigarettes can explode and cause burns and projectile injuries. Such risk is significantly increased when batteries are of poor quality, stored improperly, or are being modified by users.” -
They are poisonous.
“There is conclusive evidence that intentional or accidental exposure to e-liquids (from drinking, eye contact, or skin contact) can result in adverse health effects such as seizures, anoxic brain injury, vomiting, and lactic acidosis.”
“There is conclusive evidence that intentionally or accidentally drinking or injecting e-liquids can be fatal.” - For adults wanting to quit smoking, there are safer and more effective ways of quitting.
For Parents and Teachers
The teenage years are the most important time for brain development, so it's especially important that parents and teachers protect teen brains from harmful substances.
Using an e-cigarette IS vaping. Common terms youth use to describe vaping products:
- E-cigs
- E-pens
- E-hookahs
- Vape sticks
- Vape pens
- Mods (short for mechanical modification)
- Personal vaporizers
- Juuling (using a Juul-brand e-cigarette)
Most people know what cigarettes look and smell like, but vape products come with their own unique styles and flavors that may be difficult to spot.
Signs your child or student is vaping:
- One
- Two
[Images of common devices and flavors]
SHARP data on Salt Lake County use rates
Prevention Resources
- U.S. Surgeon General's E-cigarette Report and Resources
- END (Ending Nicotine Dependence) Classes for Teens
- The Science of Addiction: Genetics and the Brain
- How you can help prevent youth vaping:
- Parents, talk to your kids!
- Build your resume with leadership opportunities in PLT and other youth groups
- Watch the short films from the Kick Ash Film Festival!