Vaporizers, commonly referred to as vapes or e-cigarettes, are battery-operated devices that heat liquid nicotine to produce an aerosol for users to inhale. While some assert that e-cigarettes can lead to nicotine addiction that may eventually result in smoking traditional cigarettes, research is ongoing regarding their links to various health issues, including neurological damage and lung conditions such as coughing or asthma.

A typical "pod" of vape juice or oil contains roughly the same amount of nicotine as an entire pack of cigarettes. Fewer than 2% of all vape juices are nicotine-free. For example, one mango-flavored Juul pod (a popular brand of vape oil) costs about $4 when purchased in a four-pack, while the average cost of a pack of cigarettes is approximately $9. This indicates that it is significantly cheaper to buy the same amount of nicotine through vaping or e-cigarettes.

E-cigarettes typically contain addictive nicotine, which can negatively impact young brains and affect cognitive abilities, mental health, and personality. Evidence indicates that vaping may damage blood vessels, elevate blood pressure, and increase the risk of blood clots. Additionally, some studies show that children who begin with vaping are more likely to experiment with traditional tobacco products. The chemicals present in vaping liquids can also cause acute lung injuries and contribute to long-term lung and cardiovascular diseases, according to the American Lung Association.

According to information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), over 3.6 million middle and high school students in the United States currently use e-cigarettes. The usage of e-cigarettes among students has significantly increased since 2011. For instance, only 1.5% of high school students reported using e-cigarettes in 2011, whereas this figure soared to 20.8% by 2018. Between 2017 and 2018, the percentage of high school students using e-cigarettes rose by 78%, from 11.7% to 20.8%.

Facts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among American youth. While vaping and e-cigarettes are often marketed with appealing flavors to attract younger audiences, it is essential to recognize their primary purpose: to deliver the same addictive nicotine found in traditional cigarettes. This is why their purchase is illegal for individuals under 18 in our state.

The Surgeon General has outlined numerous adverse health effects associated with vaping, especially severe in developing brains such as those of teenagers and adolescents. Disturbingly, there is also a rise in the use of THC/cannabis-related/hemp oil products among teenagers. These oils can be purchased online from Canadian retailers and shipped to the U.S. While in some states, individuals with documented medical needs can legally purchase these products for personal use, it is crucial to note that possession of these oils without proper medical documentation is considered illegal and may lead to serious legal consequences.

National Institute on Drug Abuse

Texas Health and Human Services - Vaping Epidemic

Texas Health and Human Services - Lung Injury Associated with Vaping

According to the Galena Park Independent School District (ISD) Student Code of Conduct, possession of tobacco products, including cigarettes and e-cigarettes, as well as any components or accessories for e-cigarette devices, is prohibited. Additionally, it is against the Code of Conduct to possess, use, give, or sell paraphernalia related to any forbidden substances, and such actions will result in disciplinary measures.

Galena Park ISD will continue to collaborate with families to raise awareness of this growing issue and protect our students' health. If you have any questions or need assistance concerning your child who may be struggling with addiction to these substances, please reach out to your child’s school nurse.