The Health Risks of Vaping

With several deaths and an outbreak of severe lung disease reported to be linked to the use of electronic-cigarettes, or vaping devices, health professionals are recommending caution to individuals using e-cigarettes and other vaping products. The Center for Diseases Control and Prevention does not know the cause other recent illnesses but advises, "E-cigarettes are not safe for youth, young adults, pregnant women, or adults who do not currently use tobacco products."

How Vaping Devices Work

Vaping devices work by heating a liquid containing nicotine or THC (found in marijuana). Many of the products also contain flavorings like cinnamon in a vegetable glycerin or propylene glycol solution. While these flavorings are considered safe to eat, when heated at high temperatures they undergo chemical changes that can make them harmful when inhaled.

When the heated vapor is inhaled, the nicotine or THC is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, similar to the way smoking works as a drug delivery mechanism. While the vapor from the devices may look like harmless water vapor, it contains a wide range of chemical compounds. The health effects of these chemical compounds is not yet fully understood.

Are Vaping Products Harmful?

While there has been no link with e-cigarettes and cancer, the potential is there, and the recent outbreak of lung-related diseases that may be linked to vaping devices are reason to be cautious.

It's important to let your children know that while e-cigarettes are probably safer than cigarettes, the nicotine they contain is just as addictive and has not been proven to be a safer alternative. The best advice you can give them is to never inhale anything but air.