While the overall use of tobacco by youth continues to decrease, the use of e-cigarettes is on the rise. E-cigarette use among high school students was more than 2.5 times higher in 2013 as it was in 2011, as reported by the National Youth Tobacco Survey. Many youth perceive e-cigarettes to be safe, which is just not the case. There are a number of adverse effects associated with their use including pneumonia, heart problems, hypotension, and more according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
E-cigarettes can be addictive and, with 90% of all addictions beginning before adulthood, youth use of these devices should not be taken lightly. Parents can start by educating themselves on e-cigarettes; what they look like, how they’re used, the effects, and where their child may get ahold of them. The 2014 Arizona Youth survey reports that majority of youth get the substances they abuse from their friends. Knowing where and with whom kids are hanging out can help parents spot the potential use of these devices. Visit The National Institutes of Health to learn more about how e-cigarettes work, what they look like, and for other valuable information.
The Wall Street Journal (WJS) recently reported on these alarming statistics as well. In their report they spoke to representatives from the FDA and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) on the dangers of nicotine, especially as it relates to the adolescent brain. Click below to view the WJS report in its entirety.
For more information on how to talk to kids about e-cigarettes and other harmful substances, go to DrugFreeAZKids.org/TalkWithYourKids.
