Over the last several years, we have seen increased use of vapes and e-cigarettes among young people in Addison County. Vapes were once marketed as a tool for adults using cigarettes to quit, and have now become a trendy substance among youth. Vapes appeal to youth due to the wide range of flavors, bright colors, and various shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, this appeal hides the harmful effects of chemicals like formaldehyde, lead, and benzene and the higher nicotine content. These chemicals can severely impact developing brains, lungs, and hearts. Youth often do not understand what they are inhaling or the long-term effects these substances can have on their health and development.
Here in Addison County, we have been taking action. For the past two years, UWAC has been presenting to elementary schools across the county using Stanford’s “You and Me, Together Vape Free” curriculum. This program introduces students to key concepts about what is inside vapes and e-cigarettes, nicotine addiction, environmental harms, and healthy coping skills in an age-appropriate and engaging way. With three interactive lessons and a demonstration at the end, students learn that protecting their bodies starts early. We also discuss refusal skills for when students are offered a vape by a peer or older siblings, for example. It is important to continue to educate students about the harmful effects of substance use and give them the tools to make informed decisions.
For resources about how to quit vaping for students or adults, visit our resource toolkit here.
Author: Celia Heath, Community Initiatives and Grants Manager, United Way of Addison County
