The Dangers of Vaping

The use of electronic cigarettes – e-cigarettes – e-cigs – vape pens – has been increasing among high school students.  Vaping in high schools rose from 1.5% of students in 2011 to 20% in 2018.  Middle schools may also be affected.  This is a serious matter, because of the dangers of vaping. Juul is the brand name for e-cigarettes. Juul has flavored e-cigs that appeal to youth.

In September of 2019 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the US Food and Drug Administration sent out a warning – urging people to consider not using e-cigarettes and also to avoid buying them off the street.  Currently there have been at least 380 cases of severe lung illness reported from vaping, and 6 deaths.  Unfortunately, more deaths are expected.

Vaporizers heat and aerosolize the nicotine or nicotine plus marijuana meant to be inhaled.  Vaping solutions consist of particles associated with toxicity to the heart and lungs, such as formaldehyde.  Vaping can irritate the lungs and lead to damage. It increases lung inflammation and paralyzes cilia – the hair-like projections in airways that remove microbes and debris. This increases the risk of pneumonia. A new finding has been lipoid pneumonia – the presence of fat in the lungs as a result of vaping. This is a relatively new illness with long term consequences.  Articles in the British Medical Journal and the New England Journal of Medicine have cited cases of hospitalized patients with vomiting, chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, and weight loss.  Recovery can be slow, and complete recovery from lipoid pneumonia may not occur. Vaping has also been linked to seizures and damage to the endothelial cells that line the blood vessels. In one case, the e-cigarette exploded in the mouth of a user.

I think the lessons here are clear.  Do not vape. If you are a cigarette smoker and want to quit, talk to your health care provider about safe methods.  Go to the website of the Mayo Clinic for their suggestions.  You can do it – many have succeeded – be safe, and keep your children safe.  

Sadja Greenwood, MD, MPH