Vaping has become a hidden health threat among teens, leaving many parents unaware of its dangers. Unlike traditional cigarettes, vaping devices are easy to conceal and often emit little to no scent, making detection challenging. Understanding the risks and learning how to talk to your teen about vaping is the first step in protecting their health.

The Rise of Vaping Among Teens

Vaping and the use of e-cigarettes by teens has become an increasingly prevalent public health concern and a topic that many parents feel ill-equipped to address. As opposed to traditional cigarettes when “back in the day” parents could easily detect the distinct pungent odor on their child, in the world of vaping, the scent can be virtually nonexistent. This can result in a parent going months, or years without suspecting their child is availing themselves of vaping devices. Understanding that vaping is common, readily available, and easily concealed is the first step that parents can take toward addressing this all too prevalent teen health threat.

Data from the 2021-2023 Monitoring the Future study reveals that near-daily vaping is reported by 1.7% of 8th graders, 4.2% of 10th graders, and 7.8% of 12th graders. This means roughly 1 in 12 high school seniors vape almost daily. The study also found that teens most often cite three reasons for vaping: to relax, to experiment, or simply out of boredom.

Why Are Teens Drawn to Vaping?

Children are consistently introduced to vaping by their peers. Social pressure to fit in is a common driving force. Teens are often marketed by vaping companies with purportedly positive messages about vaping that include a healthier alternative to tobacco, featuring actors happily engaging in social vaping. Furthermore, vaping chemicals are usually cloaked in a variety of appealing flavors such as bubblegum and cotton candy, and are also relatively inexpensive and widely available. Most importantly, e-cigarettes contain nicotine, a highly addictive compound. In some instances, the amount of nicotine in a vape can be even higher than in a traditional cigarette – one vape can contain more nicotine than an entire carton of cigarettes.

As mentioned, teens are particularly vulnerable to initiate vaping because of peer pressure, marketing strategies, and misconceptions about the safety of vaping. Once hooked, over 70% of teens continue to vape to ‘relax’ and ‘take the edge off’. The sense of relaxation brought on by nicotine is temporary and is quickly replaced by withdrawal symptoms and increased cravings. It’s a cyclical trap.

The Hidden Dangers of E-Cigarettes

Vaping is often viewed as a healthier alternative to cigarette smoking. Still, the use of e-cigarettes along with regular tobacco has been shown to hamper the ability to quit nicotine altogether. In one study using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans, e-cigarettes caused more inflammation than regular cigarettes. Vaping can lead to damage to the respiratory tract, and the cardiovascular system (heart and blood vessels), and lead to neurologic impairment.

E-cigarettes contain harmful substances like arsenic, heavy metals (such as tin and lead), and tiny particles that can irritate and inflame the airways. This irritation can damage the lungs and has been linked to asthma flare-ups and bronchitis. With multiple generations of e-cigarettes on the market, studies show that each version can cause harm. Additionally, e-cigarettes release chemicals like formaldehyde, which, along with other toxic ingredients, can lead to cell death.

The Health Impact of Vaping

Respiratory System:

  • Inflammation and irritation of airways.
  • Potential for asthma flare-ups and bronchitis.
  • Lung damage linked to chemicals like formaldehyde and heavy metals.

Cardiovascular System:

  • Increased risk of high blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Artery damage and reduced blood flow during exercise.
  • Higher likelihood of heart attacks, especially when combined with traditional cigarette use.

Neurological Effects:

  • Nicotine addiction is caused by changes in the brain’s reward system.
  • Links to depression and schizophrenia.
  • Increased susceptibility among individuals with ADHD.
  • Long-term impacts on neurocognitive function.

How Parents Can Address the Vaping Epidemic

  • Start early: Introduce the topic of nicotine addiction and its risks while your child is young.
  • Share your experience: Be open about your own challenges with peer pressure and decision-making.
  • Teach media literacy: Help your child recognize marketing strategies that appeal to teens.
  • Educate on nicotine: Explain its addictive properties and the harm it can cause to the body and brain.
  • Be a resource: Offer honest answers to their questions and create an environment for open dialogue.
  • Discuss long-term consequences: Emphasize the impact of vaping on health and quality of life.
  • Seek professional help if needed: Contact your child’s pediatrician for guidance and support.

If you suspect your teen may be vaping or want to address the risks proactively, reaching out to your pediatrician is an essential step. TopLine MD Alliance-affiliated pediatricians are here to provide guidance, answer your questions, and support your family. Together, we can work to educate and empower teens to make healthier choices.

This blog post was written with insights and support from Dr. Alina Di Liddo, a proud member of the TopLine MD Alliance practicing pediatric care in Broward County. TopLine MD Alliance is an association of independent physicians dedicated to delivering the highest standard of healthcare services.

The TopLine MD Alliance is an association of independent physicians and medical practice groups who are committed to providing a higher standard of healthcare services. The members of the TopLine MD Alliance have no legal or financial relationship with one another. The TopLine MD Alliance brand has no formal corporate, financial, or legal ties to any of the affiliated physicians or practice groups.