Talking to Your Teen About the Dangers of Vaping

Talking with teens about risky behaviours is important. As parents and carers, we might already be good at discussing alcohol, drugs, smoking and respectful relationships. Vaping is another topic worth including.

A new Quit campaign highlighting the risks of e-cigarettes was launched this week alongside new research by Cancer Council Victoria’s Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer. The data reveals many young Victorians are still unaware of the risks associated with vaping.

E-cigarette/vape liquids can contain more than 200 chemicals, and some of these – such as arsenic and benzene – are known to cause cancer. E-cigarette/vape usage has been confirmed to cause seizures, lung, facial and oral injuries, dizziness, loss of concentration, and nicotine poisoning. Exposure to nicotine can exacerbate mood disorders and has been linked to negative impacts on cognitive performance and brain structure.

This lack of awareness about the dangers of vaping coupled with dramatic increases in vaping amongst young people, prompted Quit in partnership with the Department of Health and VicHealth to unveil two new initiatives – the ‘See through the haze’ campaign targeting 14-39 year olds, and an online hub called ‘Get the facts on vaping’ designed for parents and carers. 

We encourage all families to view the See through the haze - YouTube campaign and access the online hub for more information, guidance and support at: Homepage | Quit Vaping Facts

Rachel McGennisken

Deputy Principal