Vaping and Teens: Strategies to Help Stem the Tide

Electronic cigarettes (E-cigarettes) were first introduced into the US in 2007. Since then, there has been a dramatic increase in their use by adolescents and young adults. In 2015, “ever-use” of E-cigarettes reached 40% of middle- and high-school students.

E-cigarettes deliver vaporized solutions containing nicotine or non-nicotine substances for respiratory absorption. A tank or cartridge contains the solution to be vaporized, and each e-cigarette includes a heating element with an electronic power source. While E-cigarettes are marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking, their use exposes young people to nicotine and its adverse effects (including effects on the developing brain) and to carcinogens produced by the combustion of carrier agents, which may include propylene glycol and/or a vegetable glycerin.

Reports of pulmonary injury, renal disease, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and a recent death linked to E-cigarettes makes it imperative that clinicians understand these devices and the extent of their use by adolescents and young adults. This activity will prepare clinicians to ask their patients about E-cigarette use, and counsel young people with respect to these devices and their impacts on health.