Vaping
Epidemic
The Rising Threat of E-Cigarettes
MEGAN BEVINS
In the past , smoking cigarettes was common as there wasn ’ t much information on just how harmful they were . Today , the severe health risks associated with smoking are well-documented , and the habit is widely frowned upon . However , a similar public health crisis is emerging in the 21st century with the rising use of electronic tobacco devices , commonly known as e-cigarettes .
West Virginia currently ranks one of the highest in the nation for tobacco use . According to the West Virginia Health Statistics Center , in 2023 , 10.1 % of adults reported current use of e-cigarettes .
One of the biggest components of the state ’ s e-cigarette problem is its use among children , mainly those of middle and high school age . The West Virginia Department of Education reports that 27 % of West Virginia high school students currently use electronic vapor products , and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 3.5 % of middle school students currently use e-cigarettes .
There are many misconceptions surrounding e-cigarette use , one large example being that it is not harmful at all or is less harmful than smoking cigarettes . Many users , especially children , aren ’ t aware that e-cigarettes contain nicotine and believe they only emit water vapor .
Michelle Anderson , executive director of the American Heart Association of West Virginia & Blue Ridge , Virginia , says if the current rate continues , nearly 8 % of youth will die prematurely due to smoking related diseases .
“ These products can deliver significantly higher levels of addictive nicotine compared to traditional cigarettes — one pod can contain as much nicotine as an entire pack of cigarettes ,” Anderson says . “ Another common misconception is that e-cigarettes only emit ‘ harmless water vapor .’ In fact , the aerosol from e-cigarettes can be harmful to the lungs , cardiovascular system and brain development .”
Jen Folkenroth , national senior director of Tobacco Programs at the American Lung Association , says another misconception of e-cigarettes is that they are meant for weaning off or quitting cigarette use .
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