The number of young adults who vape has doubled in recent years. This trend is concerning, as vaping can have negative effects on physical and mental health.

What is vaping?

Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling an aerosol, often referred to as vapor, produced by an e-cigarette or similar device.

E-cigarettes contain a battery, a heating element, and a liquid, usually comprising of nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. The liquid is heated, creating a vapor that is inhaled by the user.

What does the data say?

According to the National Youth Tobacco Survey, the number of high school students who vape increased from 11.7% in 2017 to 27.5% in 2019. Similarly, the number of college students who vape went from 6.1% in 2017 to 14.0% in 2019.

These numbers represent a two-fold increase in just two years.

Reasons for the increase

There are multiple reasons why the number of young adults who vape has doubled. One of the main reasons is the introduction of new e-cigarette devices and flavors.

Companies have been marketing flavors that are attractive to young adults, such as mango, bubble gum, and cotton candy. Additionally, e-cigarettes are often marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, which has led many young adults to try them.

Social media has also played a significant role in the increase, as influencers promote vaping products to their followers.

Health risks of vaping

While e-cigarettes are marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, there are still health risks associated with vaping. E-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can harm the developing brain of young adults.

Additionally, the chemicals in e-cigarettes can damage lung tissue and lead to lung disease. E-cigarettes have also been linked to seizures, and there have been cases of e-cigarette explosions causing burns and other injuries.

Impact on mental health

Vaping can also have an impact on mental health. Nicotine is a stimulant, and can increase feelings of anxiety and irritability.

Additionally, many young adults who vape may be using it as a coping mechanism for stress, which can lead to further mental health issues down the line. Vaping can also lead to social isolation, as many young adults who vape may feel the need to hide it from their friends and family.

Prevention measures

It is important to take measures to prevent young adults from vaping. One of the main prevention measures is education. Schools, parents, and healthcare professionals can educate young adults on the risks associated with vaping.

There should also be stricter regulations on the marketing and sale of e-cigarettes, to prevent companies from targeting young adults with attractive flavors and advertising. Additionally, social media platforms should do more to regulate the promotion of vaping products by influencers.

Conclusion

The number of young adults who vape has doubled in recent years, and this trend is concerning. Vaping can have negative effects on both physical and mental health.

It is important to take measures to prevent young adults from vaping and educate them on the health risks associated with it.