Vaping and Tobacco Use
Vapes, vape pens, hookah pens, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes or e-cigs), and e-pipes are some of the many names for electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). These products have a liquid that heats up and turns into a vapor that you smoke or “vape.”
Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, flavorings, and chemicals. Tobacco companies often market these products to youth, making them seem appealing and popular. But it’s important to learn what’s in them and to understand how they can harm your health.
Harmful Chemicals, Addiction, and Health Effects
- It’s not just harmless water vapor in e-cigarettes. It has a mix of chemicals that are not safe to breathe. Some of these chemicals include:
- Diacetyl, a chemical linked to a serious lung disease.
- Benzene, which is found in car exhaust.
- Heavy metals, such as nickel, tin, and lead
- Formaldehyde—embalming fluid
- Hexamine—found in barbecue lighter fluid
- Lead—used in batteries.
- Arsenic—used in rat poison.
- Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. It can harm brain development in your youth, lasting up to your mid-20s.
- Youth who use e-cigarettes are more likely to smoke cigarettes as adults.
- Secondhand vapor from e-cigarettes is harmful to your lungs.
Quick Facts on the Risks of E-cigarettes for Kids, Teens, and Young Adults
Take the Quiz: Vaping Reality Check
Resources
- Teenage years can be hard. Find ways to handle stress and be social while quitting tobacco or vaping: Become a Smokefree Teen
- From the Surgeon General, get the basics on e-cigarettes, including risks for your brain and behavior: The Facts on e-cigarette use among youth and young adults
- Learn more about tobacco products and secondhand smoke
- Resources for quitting
- Visit the PA Free Quitline website or call 1.800.QUIT.NOW.
Videos
- CDC: Educators: Empower Vape-Free Youth with Healthy Coping Skills
- Tips on Talking to Your Kids | Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (tobaccofreekids.org)
Recommendations for Parents and Educators