One in four high school students in Alaska said that they have used e-cigarettes, also called vaping. Vaping is becoming more popular in schools, with the effects harming their health. Reports show that youth are more likely to try vaping than adults. Tobacco companies spend about $16 million a year advertising to youth in Alaska. They make products that have fruity flavors, colorful packaging, and are placed in locations that youth frequent.
Vaping can open the door to trying other tobacco products, like cigarettes. Many people think e-cigarettes are a “healthy” alternative to cigarettes. This is not true. Both contain nicotine and other chemicals that are addicting and harmful to brain development. “Teens who vape are 3x more likely than non-vapers to become daily cigarette smokers.” (Alaska Quit Line – Not Buying It) Tobacco companies want to have a customer for life. They aim to attract kids so that they are addicted and spending money throughout their lifetime.
Prevention and education are key to keeping youth from starting to smoke e-cigarettes, or traditional cigarettes.
The SEARHC tobacco team can provide resources for schools, students, and parents. We offer educational training for school staff, vape and tobacco presentations, cessation resources and connections to state and national support services.
Contact us at tobacco@searhc.org for support.
This blog post was brought to you by the Community Wellness team. The SEARHC Community Wellness department encompasses nutrition, health education, WISEWOMAN women’s health, tobacco cessation and more.
The views and opinions expressed on the Wellness & Wisdom Blog belong to the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium. The Wellness & Wisdom Blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
