Vaping program set for March 7
Discussion will address the general misconception that vaping is a healthy alternative to smoking
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. » One out of every six teenagers has used ecigarettes in the past six months.
The replacement of cigarettes using vaping devices has become popular among teenagers, which is why Saratoga Springs City School District is partnering with The Prevention Council and the Saratoga-Wilton Elks to offer a program March 7 titled “Vaping: What you NEED to Know.”
Amy McBride, Director of Coalition Development and Community Outreach, will present on the origin of vaping, current available research and the growing trends throughout the area pertaining to youths using vaping devices.
Teenagers use vaping devices in school. McBride said administrators are confiscating the devices. There’s a danger to electric cigarettes.
“We’re concerned because most of the vape juice and the liquid contain nicotine. We know that’s addictive,” said McBride. “We know that, especially with youth, their brains are still developing and the nicotine exposure can certainly have long-lasting effects on these teens. It can affect them with their impulse control, mood disorders it has been linked to.” Additionally, more problems could occur since some of the devices contain aerosol.
“Aerosol has a whole host of harmful ingredients, just breathing in that aerosol. Teens are using the flavored vape liquid,” said McBride. “The flavoring itself is artificial and the active ingredient to add to the flavoring is a chemical that’s been linked to lung disease.”
In December 2015 a study discovered that Diacetyl, a flavoring chemical linked to cases of severe respiratory disease, was found in more than 75 percent of flavored electronic cigarettes and refill liquids tested by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
McBride explained how some vape liquids have tested positive for benzene. Since vaping is still new, it can be seen as something that’s not harmful.
“We just want to educate the public, educate the parents, educate the teens so they know that it’s big tobacco companies reinvigorated and moving in a whole new direction, marketing to teens, especially with these fun, enticing flavors for youth,” said McBride. “If you got into a vape shop, they’re really focused on getting the youth in there, with Fruity Pebbles flavors, Sour Patch kids, creme brulee and chocolate. It’s all of these fun flavors.”
It’s not just e-cigarettes used through vaping devices.
“They’re now modifying their vape devices to vape marijuana concentrates,” said McBride. “It’s trending with our teens, and we’re noticing it certainly in our area.”
The various types of vaping will be discussed during the presentation. Parents and students will have the opportunity to ask questions following the presentation.
McBride said there’s a general misconception that vaping is a healthy alternative to smoking.
“This is not just some healthy alternative. It’s not this healthy thing you can do,” said McBride. “It can cause damage.”
The program, which includes a free dinner, will be offered at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge on 1 Elks Lane from 6 until 7:30 p.m. Attendees are asked to RSVP by March 5 online at www.Saratogaschools.org/Vaping/.