A parent’s guide to protecting against the dangers of vaping
In a poll conducted by Mott Children’s Hospital, about 60 percent of parents whose teens vape have no idea. That chilling reality comes with a lot of questions — from health risks to signs your teen could be vaping. Here’s a breakdown of what you should know and how to protect children from the dangers of vaping.
Why are vapes popular?
According to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, more than one in five Oklahoma high school students report vaping, and most of them started with a flavored product. With more than 15,000 flavors of vapes on the market, many are aimed specifically at addicting young people. Vaping often appears in media, which makes kids think it’s safe. The tobacco industry has also made vaping more enticing with discounted prices, event sponsorships, tech-inspired designs and false claims about mental health benefits.
Despite laws prohibiting vape sales to minors, teens find ways to get the product. Some online vape retailers have lax age-verification processes, and some even boast “discreet shipping” to conceal vape purchases. Teens can also get vapes from peers or other acquaintances who sell for a profit.
Why is vaping bad for teens?
Many people don’t realize the most popular vapes are made and distributed by tobacco companies, according to the Truth Initiative. Like any tobacco product, vaping poses significant health risks, especially for young people. One big risk? Addiction. Most vapes contain high levels of nicotine, and teens who vape are nearly seven times as likely to use cigarettes later in life. Vapes also contain several harmful chemicals known to cause cancer.
The health risks of vaping
Vaping can cause immediate health issues. Lung irritation may trigger wheezing, asthma attacks and shortness of breath. It also causes dry mouth, which can lead to dental issues. Long-term vaping can lead to respiratory issues, an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, gastrointestinal and kidney disorders, reproductive health issues and infertility, resistance to chemotherapy and other medicines, and, of course, addiction.
Nicotine from vapes can also disrupt teens’ mental health significantly — worsening anxiety, depression, impulsivity and learning abilities. The tobacco industry often claims their products help mental health. According to the Truth Initiative, four out of five teens try vaping to cope with depression or anxiety. However, nicotine actually makes mental health struggles worse.
Common types of vapes
Vapes come in many shapes and sizes. Pod-based vapes are small, often USB-shaped devices that look like phone chargers, hard drives or adaptors. Pen vapes are ultra-sleek and easy to hide among school supplies. Disposable vapes are designed with discretion in mind, often resembling highlighters, earbud cases or toys.
Signs your teen is vaping
Vaping can affect teens physically and mentally. Watch for physical signs like nosebleeds, nausea, headaches, dehydration, a constant cough, mouth sores or skin changes. Unexplained sweet scents, strange batteries or chargers, and the delivery of unmarked packages may also be warning signs.
As teens begin to struggle with nicotine addiction, their behaviors and routines may change as well. They may experience intense mood swings, oversleep, struggle to concentrate, lose interest in hobbies or sports, and spend more money than usual.
Even if your teen exhibits one or more of these symptoms, don’t immediately assume they’re vaping. Hormones, stress and typical development can present similar changes. Invite open and honest conversation about changes you’re seeing rather than making accusations.
Other nicotine products
There are other nicotine products on the market growing in popularity among teens. Cigarette use has declined over the decades but still poses a threat. While smokeless tobacco, like dip or chew, is more common in rural areas, nicotine pouches — such as Zyn and On! — are becoming more popular everywhere. These pouches contain high levels of nicotine that put youth at risk of addiction and other health issues.
Talk with your kids about the dangers of vaping
One of the best strategies parents can employ to help kids remain tobacco free is having open, honest conversations about vaping. These ongoing discussions can help combat the temptation teens face around vaping.
Not sure how to start the conversation? Find age-specific conversation starters and guides to help keep the conversation going at TalkAboutTobacco.com from Tobacco Stops With Me. Plus, parents can explore options to prevent vaping and find judgment-free support.
Remember: You play a vital role in protecting your child from a lifetime of addiction.
