MILWAUKEE -- In Wisconsin, youth e-cigarette use nearly tripled from 2014 to 2018.
Electronic, or e-cigarettes are a multi-billion dollar industry in the U.S. While these products are often marketed as less dangerous than traditional cigarettes, they may not be as safe as you think.
Vaping involves the use of e-cigarettes, battery operated devices that look like a real cigarette or pen. While they’re often marketed to help people quit smoking, most e-cigarettes still contain nicotine along with other toxic substances like lead, cadmium and nickel.
“Vaping products range from around zero to 36 milligrams of nicotine per package, per volume,” said Bonnie Halpern-Felsher, PhD, professor of Pediatrics at Stanford University School of Medicine.
The American Lung Association says using the devices may cause irreversible lung damage and lung disease. And e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco products among kids.
Besides the potential health impact, another danger is the devices can cause burns or fires. Experts say only charge e-cigarettes with their designated charger, and don’t leave them charging overnight. If the batteries get hot, throw them out. Don’t use the device while it’s charging or if the batteries are damaged.
