What was once seen as a safer alternative, vaping, has exploded into a widespread problem, threatening the health of our youth. The rise of e-cigarettes among teens and even younger kids is alarming and demands our immediate attention.

Understanding the Misconceptions

 

Before diving into the risks, let’s clear up some common myths about e-cigarettes:

What Are E-Cigarettes?

E-cigarettes, also known as electronic cigarettes, vape pens, or vapes, are battery-powered devices that heat a liquid to produce a vapour that is inhaled. This liquid, often called e-liquid or vape juice, typically contains nicotine, flavourings, and various chemicals.

 

The Real Dangers of Vaping

Contrary to popular belief, vaping isn’t risk-free. E-liquids contain nicotine, flavorings, and other potentially toxic substances that can cause lung inflammation (e.g., EVALI), nicotine addiction, and unknown long-term effects. Because e-cigarettes don’t produce smoke, many mistakenly believe they are less harmful than traditional cigarettes. However, the aerosol created by e-cigarettes can carry toxic chemicals linked to life-threatening health issues, particularly in the lungs.

 

“Cigarettes produce harmful second-hand smoke, while vaping generates aerosol with fewer toxins, though secondhand exposure to nicotine remains a concern,” said Affinity Health’s Marketing Manager Vinay Pillay.

 

“Nicotine delivery is faster with cigarettes, enhancing their addictive potential, but vaping’s smoother delivery and appealing flavors have made it popular among younger individuals. While the dangers of smoking are well documented, vaping’s long-term effects are still under study, and both carry significant risks, particularly for non-smokers, pregnant individuals, and youth,” he added.

 

According to Life Path Health, teens face damaging effects ranging from respiratory and cardiovascular issues to mood and cognitive problems. Vaping can also lead to other substance use, impulsivity, and oral health issues.

 

Some vaping products contain THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, which can negatively affect brain development and increase the risk of addiction.

 

It is, therefore, important for parents to recognize that vaping is not a harmless trend but a serious threat to their children’s physical and mental development.

 

Nicotine, a highly addictive substance, can impair brain development, affecting learning, memory, and attention span. Furthermore, the aerosols produced by e-cigarettes contain ultrafine particles and toxic chemicals that can damage the lungs and cardiovascular system. Other substances that can be found in vapes are formaldehyde, a carcinogen produced when vaping at high temperatures, and flavorings. Yes, flavours.

 

What Signs Can Parents Look For?

So, how can parents tell if their child is vaping? Here are some key signs to watch out for:

Early Intervention is Key

“To help kids avoid vaping, parents can start by explaining the health risks in simple terms, such as how vaping can harm their lungs, cause addiction and expose them to harmful chemicals. It’s also important to talk about peer pressure and teach kids how to say no confidently,” shared Pillay.

 

“Linking the decision to avoid vaping to their goals, like doing well in sports or school, can make it more meaningful. Parents should set a good example by not smoking or vaping themselves and create an open environment where kids feel safe talking about their experiences without fear of judgment. Clear family rules about vaping, along with encouraging friendships with positive influences, can also make a big difference. With trust, support, and open communication, parents can guide their kids toward making healthier choices,” he added.