Youth Vaping: Understanding
the Risks and Quitting Support
Why Do Youth Vape?
There are many reasons why youth may choose to vape. Some believe it is safer than traditional cigarettes, others are curious, and some may be influenced by friends or family members who smoke. Unfortunately, these misconceptions can lead to harmful consequences.
Bolton Teen Vaping Statistics
What’s in a Vape?
Nicotine is the primary ingredient in vapes, and it has harmful effects on the developing teen brain. Additionally, vapes contain other dangerous substances, including:
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High nicotine levels
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Volatile organic compounds
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Ultrafine particles
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Carcinogens
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Heavy metals like nickel, tin, and lead
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Flavorings like diacetyl, which have been linked to severe lung diseases
Flavorings play a significant role in youth vaping addiction. Although efforts have been made to ban flavored vapes, they remain available in the form of disposable vapes. Studies show that these disposable products are becoming increasingly potent and affordable.
Disposable e-cigarettes sold in the U.S. nearly tripled in nicotine strength, quintupled in e-liquid capacity, and dropped in price by nearly 70% between 2017 and 2022, according to a recent Truth Initiative® study published in Tobacco Control.
Important to Know:
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Teens also use vapes to ingest THC.
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Second-hand vape exposure is dangerous. Learn more.
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Vaping devices come in many forms, often resembling everyday objects like pens or USB sticks.
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While some ingredients in vapes are FDA-approved for ingestion, the effects of inhaling them are largely unknown.
Vaping and Pregnancy
Nicotine exposure can alter nerve cell function during fetal development, increasing the risk of stillbirth and preterm delivery for pregnant individuals who use nicotine products.
Did you know?
Disposable e-cigarettes sold in the U.S. nearly tripled in nicotine strength, quintupled in e-liquid capacity, and dropped in price by nearly 70% between 2017 and 2022, according to a recent Truth Initiative® study published in Tobacco Control.
The Rise of Oral Nicotine Pouches
Oral nicotine pouches like Zyn, On!, and Velo have rapidly become the second most popular tobacco product among teens, with usage rising to 1.8% of students in 2024 as sales exploded from 126 million to 808 million units between 2019-2022. These products contain varying nicotine levels from 1.5mg to 12mg per pouch and are available in youth-friendly flavors including fruit, mint, and candy varieties, backed by $25 million in advertising spending from 2019-2021. Despite requiring nicotine warning labels, these products face fewer regulatory restrictions than traditional tobacco with no current sales limits. Health experts warn that nicotine disrupts adolescent brain development and increases addiction risk, making any youth use unsafe regardless of the tobacco-free marketing these companies promote.
Quitting Vaping and Smoking
Quitting nicotine can be difficult, but with the right support and resources, it is possible. Here are some key steps.
Steps to Quit:
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Identify Your Motivation: Reflect on why you want to quit—health, finances, or setting a good example.
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Set a Quit Date: Choose a specific day to stop vaping or smoking.
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Seek Support: Let friends, family, or support groups know about your decision.
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Consider Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Patches, gum, lozenges, or inhalers can help reduce withdrawal symptoms.
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Explore Prescription Medications: Talk to a healthcare provider about options like bupropion or varenicline.
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Get Behavioral Support: Join counseling, support groups, or cessation programs for guidance and motivation.
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Stay Active: Exercise can help distract from cravings and improve mood.
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Avoid Triggers: Identify situations that prompt you to vape and find alternatives.
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Stay Positive: Understand that quitting is a process—setbacks happen, but progress matters.
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Celebrate Milestones: Recognize achievements, whether it’s a day, a week, or a month smoke-free.
Quitting Resources
CT Quitline: Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW, Free Nicotine Replacement Therapy may be available for those over 18.
For teens and young adults: Text VapeFreeCT to 88707 or visit VapeFreeCT.org
This Is Quitting: An anonymous text service for youth and young adults.
My Life, My Quit: An anonymous live text service for those under 17. Text StartMyQuit to 36072
Parents of youth vapers: Text Quit to 202-899-7550 for text support
For more information, visit: CT Tobacco Use Prevention & Control Program