E-cigarette companies claim that their products are intended for adults. Skyrocketing prevalence rates among teens tell a different story.
Some of the most popular e-cigarette brands – like Juul, Puff Bar and HQD – are easy to conceal and deliver high levels of nicotine.
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Learn more with the E-Epidemic Fact Sheet.
Here’s what you need to know about these products:
- Deliver high levels of nicotine
- Come in a variety of flavors that appeal to teens
- Easy to conceal and are even being used in schools
In December 2018, Marlboro cigarette maker Altria purchased a stake in JUUL for $12.8 billion. Other Big Tobacco companies, including R.J. Reynolds, have launched similar rechargeable e-cigarette devices.
In 2006, these tobacco companies were found guilty of violating civil racketeering laws (RICO) for conspiring over decades to deceive Americans about the health effects of smoking, the addictiveness of nicotine, and their marketing to youth.
E-cigarette aerosol is NOT harmless “water vapor,” as many youth mistakenly believe.
E-cigarettes can contain harmful substances:
- Cancer- causing chemicals
- Nicotine
- Ultrafine Particles
- Heavy metals such as nickel, tin, and lead
Nicotine is highly addictive, and youth may feel dependent on nicotine sooner compared to adults. Nicotine can harm brain development, which continues until about age 25. The effects include reduced impulse control, deficits in attention and cognition, and mood disorders. Ingredients in e-cigarette “vapor” could be harmful to the lungs in the long-term.