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Vaping

Vaping

Young Girl blowing out large pillow of vaping mist next to a red brick building

E-cigarette use, or vaping, is no longer a novelty. It's a common practice seen in parks, restaurants, shopping centers, schools, and even public transportation. While marketed as a safer alternative to cigarettes, vaping poses significant health risks, particularly for young people. 

Michigan Youth Tobacco Survey Reveals High Rates

The 2023 Michigan Youth Tobacco Survey by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) found that 16.5% of high school students currently use tobacco, with 13.7% using e-cigarettes. This is slightly below the national average, but still a significant public health issue. Even more alarming, 55.6% of youth surveyed reported trying e-cigarettes for the first time at 13 years old or younger. These statistics highlight the ease of access and appeal of vapes to young people.

Chart: How old were you when you first tried using e-cigarettes? 18 - 1%, 17 - 3%, 16 - 8%, 15 - 10%, 14 - 23%, 13 - 55% Chart: Statistics from 2023 Michigan Youth Tobacco Survey - Click on chart to view PDF source

What are Vapes?

Vapes are electronic devices that heat a liquid (often flavored) into an aerosol that users inhale. Known by various names like vape pens, tanks, or mods, vapes come in a wide variety of flavors, shapes, and sizes. They can be sleek and discreet, resembling everyday items like pens, USB drives, or even clothing. This versatility makes them attractive to youth, who may be unaware of the health risks.

Vaping's Detrimental Impact on Youth Health

Vaping poses a multitude of health risks for young people, including:

  • Brain Development: Exposure to nicotine from vapes can negatively impact attention, concentration, learning, academic performance, and impulse control.
  • Mental Health: Vaping has been linked to increased anxiety and depression in youth, affecting mood regulation and leading to mood swings.
  • Respiratory and Pulmonary Health: Vaping can harm lung development, increasing the risk of chronic bronchitis, respiratory problems, and even severe lung injury.
  • Cardiovascular Health: Vaping can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to long-term cardiovascular issues and damaged blood vessels.
  • Nicotine Addiction: Many vapes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can lead to dependence.
  • Exposure to Toxic Substances: E-cigarette aerosol can contain formaldehyde and heavy metals, posing additional health risks.

Easy Access: Fueling the Problem

Unfortunately, acquiring vapes is alarmingly easy for youth. According to the MDHHS survey, around 40% of youth reported buying vapes from friends, while 12% obtained them from family members. Convenience stores and gas stations also contribute to the problem, with only 5% of youth reporting being denied a sale. This accessibility makes it crucial to implement stricter regulations and raise awareness about the dangers of vaping.

Resources for youth, parents/guardians and educators

Youth resources

Parent and guardian resources

Resources for educators, coaches and school administrators