How to talk to your teen about the dangers of vaping

The good news: Fewer U.S. teens are using e-cigarettes, often referred to as vaping, compared to last year. The bad news: Over 1.6 million middle and high schoolers in America still currently vape.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Youth Tobacco Survey suggests a decrease in youth e-cigarette usage from 7.7% in 2023 to 5.9% in 2024.

“While we’re seeing an overall decline in tobacco usage among adolescents and teens, the fact remains that nearly two million American teens are addicted to nicotine and vaping,” says Dr. Julie Holland, a pediatrician and vice president of pediatric primary care at the Chicagoland Children’s Health Alliance.

Among teens who reported currently using e-cigarettes, 26% reported that they vape daily.

Dr. Holland warns of the serious danger e-cigarette users face. “Teens who vape can wind up with lifelong health consequences for their lungs and heart,” she explains. “They are at an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. As parents, and as a country, this is something we want – and need – to help our teens avoid.”

She recommends starting conversations around the consequences of smoking and vaping when children are young.

“Express to them the dangers of these activities well before middle school and encourage them to stay away from all forms of nicotine,” Dr. Holland says. “Explain to your child that vaping containers contain nicotine, which is highly addictive, and that tobacco companies want you to become addicted for their benefit. When inhaled into the lungs, nicotine can cause great damage to the body. I tell my patients to do themselves a favor and stay healthy by never forming the habit of smoking or vaping. Parents and caregivers should serve as a positive example and also refrain from all forms of nicotine.”

If your teen has started vaping or smoking, the American Lung Association offers resources and education to help them quit. Reach out to their pediatrician for additional support and guidance.

Are you trying to find a pediatrician? Find one in Illinois or Wisconsin.