As teenagers in this modern era, Saint Joseph High students can understand the struggles of influence and obtaining a certain image to ‘fit in’ with the majority. Peer pressure is a major topic of debate that continues to climb as teens give into poor influence. This striving for conformity can be further related to the increase in production of the vape. Vaping, as many know, is the action or practice of inhaling and exhaling vapor containing nicotine and flavoring produced by a device designed for this purpose (Oxford dictionary).

While vaping may appear ‘fun’ and harmless, it is truly quite the opposite. Nicotine, a highly addictive and dangerous chemical is the main ‘ingredient’ within each vape. Alongside the addictive nature of this toxic chemical, vape brands use flavor and bright colors to attract customers of a more youthful age range, and disguise the consequences that will later come with its use.

Here are a few reasons you should NOT vape.

1. Vaping devices can contain other harmful substances besides nicotine.
2. Electronic cigarettes are just as addictive as regular cigarettes. It can also cause extreme addiction that could lead to the need of rehab.
3. Vaping can cause extreme health problems; difficulty breathing, excessive coughing/ uncontrollable coughing, weight loss or gain, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea
4. Nicotine/vaping can cause increased blood pressure and heart rate, narrow arteries, heart attacks after heart damage
5. The aerosol from an e-cigarette can contain nicotine and other substances that are addictive and can cause lung disease, heart disease, and cancer.

These are just some of the major effects and harms of vaping. If you are interested in learning more about what vaping can do to your body, follow up with the links provided below.

https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/emotional-health/vaping-4-risks-for-kids

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/5-truths-you-need-to-know-about-vapin

https://www.dartmouth-hitchcock.org/patients-visitors/vaping-facts

https://www.svhhearthealth.com.au/about-us/whats-new/e-cigarettes-and-vaping-facts