There has been a dramatic increase in the use of alternative tobacco products amongst middle and high school students. In some categories, such as e-cigarettes, as many as one in five middle school students have admitted to regular usage. While the products claim to mitigate heavy reliance on tobacco and cigars, there is little evidence regarding the long term effects of the products. Additionally, the vapor within them seems harmless, but doubtful organizations have recently requested further testing and thorough analysis of both the contents and the repercussions they could have, particularly now that youths have so readily taken up the habit. The general assumption is that they are completely different than orthodox tobacco products, this is why e-cigs are permitted to advertise on tv, while promotion of regular cigarettes has been banned since 1971. While the companies behind these alternative products adamantly argue their only targeted demographic is adults who have already acquired a tobacco addiction, angry opposers, such as parents and health organizations, are demanding further involvement from federal groups to place further restrictions on the products.
While there is significance in the rising numbers of teens abusing nicotine infused products, what I find even more troubling is the amount of middle school kids who have contributed to the statistics. You always hear about high school kids, getting into trouble and experimenting with unhealthy products, but I mean that's been going on for years, every generation has it's own vice. However, the fact that seventh and eighth graders have what appears easy access to these products outlines a clear need for stricter regulations on the products. Furthermore, advertising on tv certainly isn't helping the situation. I understand that these aren't nearly as bad as regular cigarettes or cigars, but the fact remains that a portion, no matter how slight, contains nicotine and other chemicals considered hazardous.
This is so true. I know kids that claim that e-cigs are not bad at all and there is only water in them. People need to know that e-cigs are like normal cigarets and unless you want lung cancer, they are just a waste of money.
ReplyDeleteThey aren't as hazardous, but they do still contain some nicotine. Just water vapor isn't enough to replace the habit of smoking.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree. Most of the kids that get into using e-cigarettes are under the impression that they are completely harmless, but they can certainly cause health problems. I hope awareness on this issue is raised further.
ReplyDeleteI agree people do need to know that e-cigs are still bad for you. Most people are under a false impression, especially the youth of today.
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