Tobacco & Vaping Health Risks
Cigarette smoking is a major public health concern, with over 16 million Americans living with a smoking-related disease. Cigarette smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals. At least 69 of these chemicals can cause cancer.
Smoking and secondhand smoke exposure:
- causes over 480,000 deaths in the U.S. each year.
- harms nearly every organ of the body.
- can cause cancer almost anywhere in the body.
- causes many diseases.
Learn more about cigarette smoking and e-cigarettes (vapes) from the CDC.
Quitting Smoking
Quitting smoking benefits people diagnosed with cancer.
Quitting smoking lowers the risk for:
- early death.
- developing smoking-related diseases.
- 12 different cancers.
Learn how to quit smoking and vaping.
Understanding Vaping
Vaping involves inhaling a vapor produced by an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) or similar device. These devices heat a liquid called e-liquid or vape juice. This liquid contains:
- nicotine
- flavorings
- other chemicals
Although vaping is often marketed as a safer alternative to cigarettes, it is important understand the potential health effects and risks.
Health Effects and Risks
Short Term
- Irritation of the Respiratory System
- Many vapers report symptoms such as coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath. The inhalation of vapor can irritate the airways and lead to respiratory discomfort.
- Nicotine Addiction
- Most e-liquids contain nicotine, a substance that can lead to addiction. Nicotine addiction can result in cravings, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.
Long Term
- Lung Damage
- Research on the long-term effects of vaping is still ongoing, but there is evidence suggesting that it can cause damage to the lungs. The inhalation of various chemicals and fine particulate matter may lead to chronic lung conditions.
- Cardiovascular Health
- Nicotine and other substances in vape products can have adverse effects on cardiovascular health. Long-term use may increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
- Potential Harm from Chemicals
- Vaping liquids contain various chemicals, including some that are known to be harmful when inhaled, such as formaldehyde and acetaldehyde. The long-term impact of these chemicals on health is still being studied.
Impact on Youth & Adolescents
- Brain Development
- Nicotine exposure during adolescence can interfere with brain development, potentially affecting attention, learning, and susceptibility to addiction.
- Increased Risk of Smoking
- Evidence suggests that teens who vape are more likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes, leading to additional health risks.
Protecting Your Health
- Avoid Vaping
- The best way to protect your health is to avoid vaping and using tobacco products altogether.
- Stay Informed
- Keep up with the latest research and guidelines regarding vaping and its health effects.
- Seek Help if Needed
- If you're struggling with nicotine addiction or need support to quit vaping, reach out to healthcare professionals or local support groups for assistance.
Resources for Parents
- E-Cigarettes and Youth: What Parents Need to Know
- Fact sheet to educate yourself about e-cigarettes and the risks to youth.
- Talk with Your Teen about E-Cigarettes: Parent Tip Sheet
- Start a conversation with your child about tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
- The Truth Initiative
- Learn more about how you can help your teen quit.
- E-Cigarettes (Vapes)
- Learn more about the risks of youth e-cigarette use.
Images of Vaping Devices