Vaping: 3 Myths and What You Should Know

"Just try it. What’s the worst that could happen?”

Everybody feels pressure to be part of the latest trends. But when it comes to vaping and e-cigarettes, a lot of things could happen—and unfortunately, none of them are good.

Vaping refers to the inhalation of vapors produced by electronic cigarettes. Considered to be “better” than smoking regular cigarettes, the trend has grown in popularity, especially among teens and young adults.

But the vapor produced by these electronic devices can cause serious problems and might be linked to lung cancer. Knowing more about the myths that surround vaping could change someone’s life. If you or someone you care about needs help, call 812-522-0433 or schedule a lung cancer screening now!

Myth #1: Vaping isn’t addictive.

On the inside, vaping and smoking are not that different. Almost all e-cigarettes contain nicotine, an addictive chemical found in regular cigarettes. For example: one popular brand of e-cigarette pods contain as much nicotine as a full pack of cigarettes. Other brands might not label their products as having nicotine, even when they do. And some that claim to be nicotine-free have still been found to have traces of the addictive substance.

Myth #2: Vaping is harmless.

Most people think of water when they hear the word “vapor,” which is part of why vaping doesn’t sound like much of a threat. However, the liquid in e-cigarettes (e-liquid or e-juice) contains harmful substances like nicotine, cancer-causing chemicals, and heavy metals like nickel and lead.

The e-cigarette turns this liquid mixture into ultrafine particles that are then inhaled deep into your lungs, where they can cause serious problems:

• Lung inflammation, irritation, and damage
• Slower brain development (which affects your memory, concentration, mood, and self-control)
• Addiction and use of other tobacco products

Vaping can affect everything from focus in school to endurance as an athlete. And since vaping is a new trend, we still don’t know all of the long-term effects. Those unknown risks could be some of the most dangerous, since we don’t fully understand them yet.

Myth #3: Vaping looks cool.

Vaping is made to look cool. Companies research and design devices that are easy to hold and e-liquid flavors that you’ll crave. That way, you’ll want to spend your money on their products. But they don’t tell you about the harm these products can cause. By knowing more about what vaping does to your body, you can take control and choose to stay away from it.

Need help? Just ask!

Vaping is a seemingly harmless hobby that can do serious damage. If you or someone you know needs help quitting, the experts at Schneck are here for you. We’re committed to engaging with and supporting our community in many ways:

• Find resources on decreasing tobacco use
• Free help available when you call 1-800-Quit-Now (1-800-784-8669)
• Consult with one of our providers for resources, facts and personalized assistance

No matter what you need help with, don’t be afraid to talk to someone you trust and ask questions. The more you know, the better decisions you can make for your health—and we’re here to help.