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TEEN ATHLETES ARE BEING HURT BY VAPING

According to a recent report by NBC News, a growing number of teen athletes are turning to vaping. Some consider vaping a way to get a burst of energy before a game, to focus their mind during practice, or to stay in shape and lose weight. (Many people mistakenly believe that nicotine products can provide all of these effects. However, scientists have found that these beneficial effects are mostly illusory and are outweighed by the health risks of the drug.) Unfortunately, these young athletes are finding that their competitiveness decreases as their lung capacity shrinks. In fact, some have experienced permanent lung damage that makes it more difficult for them to compete at a high level. After extensive study, the CDC came to believe that one possible culprit is a compound called vitamin E acetate . This chemical compound was found in the lungs of many people who suffered from vaping-related lung illnesses. Vitamin E acetate is a chemical that is commonly used in many types of products, including vitamin supplements and skin creams. It is included in vape juices to help dilute the liquid. It is often found in products containing THC, although it can be found in other types of vaping fluids as well. In a November 2019 call with reporters, CDC deputy director Anne Schuchat called the compound a “potential toxin of concern.” She explained that vitamin E acetate usually does not cause harm when taken as part of a vitamin supplement or when applied to the skin in a cream. However, previous scientific research had found that inhaling vitamin E acetate may interfere with normal lung function. “Until

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The Scope of this Epidemic