The Many Dangers of Vaping

Once marketed as a safe and healthy alternative to smoking cigarettes, the hidden dangers of vaping are being exposed now more than ever before. With a growing number of people being hospitalized for serious health problems associated with the use of vapes, more people are starting to realize just how dangerous these smoking devices can be. You are compromising your health when using these types of devices.

The chemicals and ingredients are dangerous

Some chemicals in the aerosol that is found in e-cigarettes are dangerous. One chemical is diacetyl, which has been linked to lung cancer and bronchiolitis obliterans, commonly referred to as “popcorn lung.” In a 2015 study, researchers from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found diacetyl in 39 out of 51 different types of flavored cigarettes. A 2019 study showed a link between diacetyl and “changes in gene expression that could impair both the production and function of cilia.”

It is not just the chemicals that can cause problems for those who are vaping. The Surgeon General warns that the following ingredients in e-cigs could pose a serious risk to consumers:

• Ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Heavy metals, such as nickel, tin, and lead

It is damaging to the lungs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that at least 1,299 people have developed some type of lung injury from vaping. There have been at least 26 confirmed deaths. Patients report using e-cigarettes and vape pens with traditional nicotine products, as well as THC-based products. Based on data from 1,043 patients, 80% of all victims are 35-years-old or younger:

• 15% of patients are under 18 years old;
• 21% of patients are 18 to 20 years old;
• 18% of patients are 21 to 24 years old;
• 26% of patients are 25 to 34 years old; and
• 20% of patients are 35 years or older.

While research is still underway to determine the exact connection between lung disease and vaping, it is believed that the likely cause is chemical exposure.

Contrary to what some may believe, vaping is not a healthy alternative to smoking. Using nicotine with a vaping device can still lead to nicotine addiction, and the effects of using a vaping device can cause lasting damage to the lungs.

If you have since been diagnosed with a serious form of lung disease after regularly using a vaping device, you need to hire an attorney. You might have a claim worth pursuing. Let Bailey & Greer, PLLC help you figure out if you have a catastrophic injury claim. We currently provide legal services to clients in Memphis, Jackson, and throughout Tennessee. Please call 901-680-9777 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.