E-cigarettes (also known as electronic nicotine delivery systems or ENDS) are devices that use a battery to heat up liquid, often containing nicotine derived from tobacco, flavorings, propylene glycol, and vegetable glycerin, to create an aerosol which the user inhales. These devices have been increasing in popularity among young people. Some resemble conventional cigarette or cigar products, while others have a USB flash drive or pen-like appearance. They also may be used to deliver cannabinoids such as marijuana and other drugs.
The vapor inhaled by e-cigarette users contains chemicals that may be harmful to the lungs, heart and brain. These include the chemical nicotine, which has been shown to cause a range of negative health effects, including increased risk of lung cancer, respiratory disease and cardiovascular disease. Many other chemicals in e-cigarettes and their vapor are also toxic to human cells. For example, a recent study found that a variety of different e-liquid flavors tested positive for cytotoxicity when exposed to human embryonic stem cells, mouse neural stem cells and human pulmonary fibroblasts. The results suggest that more work needs to be done on the composition of e-liquids, as well as the potential for mislabelling.
Other risks associated with vaping include bronchiolitis obliterans (popcorn lung), a condition caused by the chemical diacetyl, which is found in some flavored e-liquids. This condition causes scarring of the lungs and can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. Additionally, the nicotine in e-cigarettes can hurt brain development, raise blood pressure, narrow arteries, and negatively affect heart function.
To help your teen quit, encourage them to find support and resources online, through texting or phone services, apps or in person. Encourage them to make a list of reasons they want to quit and to look at the list when cravings arise. Ask them to avoid situations where they normally vape and get plenty of exercise. Finally, they should choose a day to quit and tell supportive friends and family that they will be quitting that day. They should also make sure their house and car are smoke- and vape-free. Aside from helping with cravings, these actions will also help them improve their overall health. 電子煙