She Strengthens

Vaping Epidemic: Separating Fact from Hype

As I watch my friends vape, I’m reminded of my own experience with asthma. But this year, things took a dark turn. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) coined a term for vaping-related illnesses: e-cigarette, or vaping product use associated lung injury (EVALI). The first death occurred in Illinois, sparking widespread concern.

Unpacking the Context

In mid-August 2019, the CDC reported 94 possible cases of severe pulmonary illness linked to vaping across 14 states. As of now, the EVALI rate stands at 2,290, with 47 deaths. To put this into perspective, let’s look at other leading causes of death. Flu and pneumonia, for instance, claim around 36,000 to 61,000 lives annually. Motor vehicle accidents account for approximately 40,000 deaths each year. While these statistics are sobering, they help contextualize the vaping crisis.

The Cause of Vaping Injuries and Deaths

The health effects of vaping have not been rigorously studied, leaving many questions unanswered. However, the CDC has identified vitamin E acetate as a “chemical of concern” in all tested samples from people with EVALI. This additive, commonly found in skin care products and foods, may hinder normal lung functioning when inhaled. Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) and polyethylene glycol are also raising red flags.

Correlation and Causation

The majority of EVALI cases are linked to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. The FDA has found that 79% of analyzed samples contained THC, and 76% of those included vitamin E acetate. Many people vape to access THC’s benefits, but the illegal status of marijuana in some states and at the federal level creates a gray area.

Regulation and Risk

The FDA is working to regulate vaping products, requiring companies to submit ingredient lists. However, the lack of transparency in the supply chain leaves many THC vapers vulnerable. If you vape THC, it’s essential to obtain products from trusted sources, such as regulated dispensaries.

Should You Quit Vaping?

The safest decision is often to avoid inhaling any substance that isn’t oxygen. If you vape THC, consider alternative methods, like edibles. If you’re using e-cigs to quit smoking, use them as a stepping stone to stop inhaling altogether. Nicotine vapers, beware: the American Heart Association doesn’t consider vaping a safer alternative.

A Call to Action

While quitting might be the safest choice, I understand that health decisions can be complex. If you choose to continue vaping, stick to trusted brands, monitor yourself for adverse symptoms, and contact your doctor immediately if you experience them. Ultimately, it’s crucial to approach the vaping epidemic with a critical eye, separating fact from hype.