Vaping dangers make news

Illustration+By+Alejandro+Orozco

Illustration By Alejandro Orozco

Over the last few years, the vaping epidemic has skyrocketed. The act of vaping has overtaken public spaces but most significantly, it has entered the gates of schools all across the country.

There have been several studies that have shown that students do not believe that vaping has any consequences. However, vaping has plenty of repercussions; according to Dr. Linda Richter “the particles contain varying amounts of toxic chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, as well as respiratory and heart disease.”

As a matter of fact, vaping has recently been linked to about fifteen deaths and 805 lung injuries. The latest vaping-related death occurred in Nebraska, making it the first in that state.

The state’s Department of Health and Human Services said that “The person had died in May before doctors and health agencies realized that people were developing lung illnesses from vaping, and Nebraska officials did not classify the death as such until now.”

It was not until a few weeks ago that many have begun fearing for the lives of vapers. Initially when e-cigarettes first hit the US market in 2007, they were promoted as a “safer, healthier alternative to traditional, combustible cigarettes,” according to the University of Colorado Denver.

The unintended consequence of vaping devices and e-cigarettes, however, is a new generation of vapers, teenagers, becoming addicted to nicotine.

Not only do many schools across the country see an increase of vapers, but it has become very prominent here at the Islands. Students are not aware of the consequences that come with the recreational high of vaping. Students should become aware that although there are several health risks associated with vaping, there are also day to day obstacles regarding their education.

According to the Ventura County Behavioral Health Programs Vaping has been linked and connected to: “lower grades, skipping classes, studying less, lower motivation, potential to dropping out and lost opportunities (sports, jobs, special programs).”

Vaping has not only recently been connected to health issues and death but it has also been connected to affecting young users’ futures. In fact, it can lead to the loss of brain function and the imparity of life skills needed to have a stable future.