Vaping: What Teens Don't Know Can Hurt Them. Many teens believe vaping is harmless-but that couldn't be further from the truth. E-cigarettes contain toxic chemicals that can damage the lungs, heart, and brain-and in some cases, they can be deadly. Recent studies show that even nicotine-free vaping can harm the lungs after just one use. With more than 1,200 cases of severe lung illness and at least 26 deaths linked to vaping, health experts are calling it a public health crisis. As a result, schools nationwide are intensifying efforts to curb teen use of e-cigarettes. 1 in 5 high school students has tried vaping. Many think they're only inhaling flavored vapor, but most e-liquids contain nicotine, heavy metals, and cancer-causing chemicals. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 60% of teens mistakenly believe their e-cigarettes contain only flavoring. So what makes vaping so dangerous? E-cigarette liquid typically includes solvents, flavorings, and additives. When heated, these chemicals form a vapor that can inflame the lungs, damage blood vessels, and even lead to acute respiratory failure. Many products also deliver highly concentrated nicotine, which is addictive and can affect the developing brain, increase blood pressure, and lead to long-term health problems. What's more, vaping is hard to detect. Devices often resemble pens or USB drives. There's no smoke, and the sweet smell of candy-like flavors makes them easy to hide. Vape pens can also be used to inhale THC, synthetic drugs, or other substances, making them a gateway to broader substance abuse. This program is designed to educate students about the true dangers of vaping-not just the health risks, but the real potential for addiction, drug use, and long-term harm. Teens need to understand that vaping is not a trend-it's a threat to their future. Be smart. Be informed. Be the reason someone else doesn't start. Don't vape. Don't start. Speak up.

_

_

_