There are many harmful effects and associated risks of youth vaping.  One of the most important ways for students, families, clinicians and educators to collectively tackle the critical health challenges caused by youth vaping is through education and being able to separate the common myths from the truth.

 

Complete this True/False quiz to test and expand your youth vaping knowledge:

 

Question: The aerosol from a vape is just harmless water vapor.

 

That’s False. This is one of the most dangerous myths about vaping. The aerosol is not water vapor; it contains a mix of harmful chemicals, including heavy metals and nicotine, that can be inhaled by both the user and those nearby.

 

Question: Vaping is a safe way to quit smoking cigarettes.

 

That’s False. Vaping is not an FDA-approved smoking cessation tool and can actually act as a gateway to traditional cigarettes, especially for teens and young adults.

 

Question: A vape that says it is “nicotine-free” is completely safe for a student to use.

 

That’s False.  Many vapes labeled as “nicotine-free” still contain nicotine, and other chemicals used to create the aerosol can be toxic when inhaled. The lack of regulation in the black market for these products means that labeling is often inaccurate.

 

Question: A student who vapes is more likely to develop anxiety and depression.

 

That’s True. Nicotine can worsen feelings of stress and anxiety, interfering with adolescent brain development and increasing the risk for mood disorders. While many teens may start vaping to cope with stress or anxiety, the nicotine in vapes can actually worsen these feelings and create a cycle of dependency.

 

Question: Vaping only affects the lungs.

 

That’s False. Vaping can also raise blood pressure and heart rate, and weaken the immune system increasing the likelihood of long-term cardiovascular issues. Vaping has also been linked to dental problems, and mouth irritation.

 

Question: A student who vapes regularly is just being rebellious and isn’t truly addicted.

 

That’s False. Due to the high concentration of nicotine in many vapes, a student can become chemically addicted very quickly, making it a powerful dependency that is not simply a matter of willpower.

 

Question: Vapes can be a fire hazard.

 

That’s True. The lithium-ion batteries used in vapes can overheat and even explode. There have been numerous reports of these devices causing burns and other injuries to users and starting fires in homes and even schools.

 

Question: The more a student vapes, the more likely they are to miss school.

 

That’s True. The need for a nicotine fix can cause a student to skip class, and withdrawal symptoms can make it difficult for them to focus, leading to a decline in academic performance.

 

Question: It’s legal for youth to buy vapes in a convenience store.

 

That’s False. In the United States, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase nicotine products, including vapes, and retailers caught selling to minors face significant penalties. If a convenience store is observed selling vapes to individuals under the age of 21, it should be reported to the appropriate authorities. Public awareness and vigilance are key in supporting the efforts to reduce youth vaping rates.

 

How Did You Do?

 

How’d you do on the quiz? Whether you got them all right or learned something new, thank you for taking the time to learn about the facts and myths surrounding youth vaping. It’s a huge first step toward a healthier future for our young people.

 

Now that you’re armed with the facts, you can help spark change. Share what you’ve learned with friends, family, and your community to help create a healthier, vape-free generation. Together, we can make a difference!