As schools across the country gear up for another academic year, the issue of vaping among minors is once again in the spotlight. Recent studies have shown a concerning increase in the number of young people using e-cigarettes, with some starting as early as middle school.
Vaping devices are now more accessible than ever, often being marketed in ways that are appealing to teenagers. The health risks associated with vaping are significant, with potential impacts on brain development and overall well-being. Schools are faced with the challenge of addressing this behavior on their campuses.
Jennifer Cofer, the executive director of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s EndTobacco Program, recently discussed the dangers of vaping and how young people are being targeted as the primary audience. According to Cofer, surveys have indicated that e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among students in grades six through 12.
While not all e-cigarettes contain tobacco, the majority of them do contain nicotine, which is known to be addictive and harmful to developing brains. Nicotine can have a lasting impact on brain functions such as attention, learning, mood regulation, and impulse control – all of which are crucial for young students.
Marketing tactics employed by the vaping industry, such as using social media influencers and appealing flavors, play a significant role in attracting minors to these products. Flavors like “Unicorn Vomit” and packaging that resembles popular cereals make vaping devices appealing to young people, who may not fully understand the risks associated with nicotine consumption.
The accessibility of vaping products also poses a challenge for schools in terms of tracking and addressing disciplinary issues related to their use. Students may obtain these products from various sources, including retail locations, older siblings, friends, or online delivery services. Schools are working to monitor and address incidents of vaping on campus, with a focus on providing intervention and support rather than solely punitive measures.
For students who have already started vaping and are looking to quit, there are resources available to help. One such program is “This is Quitting,” a free and confidential support texting program for youth and young adults aged 13 to 24. By texting “VAPEFREETX” to 88709, individuals can access information, support, and guidance on quitting vaping and reducing nicotine use.
The effectiveness of programs like “This is Quitting” has been well-documented, with many youth and young adults successfully quitting e-cigarette use with the help of these resources. The program is available in both English and Spanish, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals seeking support.
If you found this information valuable, please consider supporting the work of organizations like the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s EndTobacco Program by making a donation. Your contribution helps fund important initiatives aimed at addressing the issue of vaping among minors and promoting healthier choices among young people.