Vaping and Health Risks

Vaping is an increasing issue amongst our young people.  Understanding what vapes are, how they affect health and where to get support is important to address this.  There is support available for people using vapes/wanting to quit, and for parents (listed below).

Some statistics about vaping:

• Only 1 in 3 young people and parents understand how harmful vaping is
• Vapes contain dangerous chemicals, including some that cause lung/airway damage, cancer and heart disease
• Young people are targeted in the marketing of vapes, especially through social media
• It is illegal to sell vapes to people under 18
• Most e-cigarettes that are labelled as nicotine free, contain nicotine which is highly addictive
• One e-cigarette/vape device can contain as much nicotine as 50 cigarettes
• Health effects can include addiction, lung injuries, bronchitis, asthma, mental health issues,  brain development issues causing memory and concentration issues

Resources 

QUIT: Homepage | Quit Vaping Facts

Quit Victoria | E-cigarettes and teens: what you need to know, 

VicHealth:  The impact of vaping on young people | VicHealth

Pamela Johnson

Secondary School Nurse