It’s never too early (or too late!) to begin having talks with our children about healthy behaviors.  Just as we were beginning to see decreases in traditional cigarette use, e-cigarette use is exploding among teenagers and young adults.  BEA Schools and United Hospital District recently hosted an #EscapetheVape information night on the dangers of e-cigarette use.  I was so happy to see so many community members and parents in attendance. We are all concerned about the vaping epidemic and want to know what we can do to protect our kids!

Some facts:

• E-cigarettes have been the most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. youth since 2014 (CDC)

• Over 5,700 kids start vaping every day (CDC, American Lung Association)

• The U.S. Surgeon General has concluded that e-cigarette aerosol is not safe (American Lung Association)

• Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive.  Nicotine exposure during adolescence can

  • Harm brain development, which continues until about age 25
  • Impact learning, memory and attention
  • Increase risk for future addiction to other drugs (CDC)

How to quit:

• Teen.smokefree.gov, includes live, on-line chat option

• Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW to speak w/ a tobacco cessation counselor

• Truth Initiative 

• Speak with your child’s healthcare provider about additional resources

What can we do as parents and caregivers:

• Talk to our children about why e-cigarettes are harmful for them

• Set a good example by being tobacco-free

• Learn about the different shapes and types of e-cigarettes and the risks of e-cigarette use for young people at www.CDC.gov/e-cigarettes

The #EscapetheVape presentation was recorded on Facebook Live. You can watch it here.