Vaping Increases among Utah Teenagers

Vaping, otherwise known as using e-cigarettes, is the newest fad among nicotine addicts and this practice is increasing even among Utah teenagers. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “e-cigarette use among middle and high school students tripled from 2013 to 2014 […] rising to 2 million students.” Vaping doesn’t show to be replacing regular cigarettes and tobacco products either, as the CDC states that during this same time, “there was no decline in overall tobacco use.

Is vaping a safer alternative?

One of the biggest selling points of vaping e-cigarettes is that they are supposedly a safer alternative to regular cigarettes, cigars, and chew. Studies in favor of vaping have shown that vaping doesn’t deliver the same amount of chemicals as tobacco products. Another health argument is that because e-cigarettes don’t burn like a regular cancer stick, the dangers of tar buildup and smoke inhalation are void. Vaping still delivers nicotine though, which is highly addictive and hazardous for teenagers and their growing brains. Additionally, because the amount of nicotine is added by the user, the chance of a measurement mistake and overdose is dangerously high, if the teenagers don’t first get sick from simply handling the nicotine.

Still illegal for minors

Vaping is still relatively new therefore the full health consequences aren’t known at this time. What is known is that it is still illegal in Utah for teenagers under the age of 19. Utah Code 76-10-105 states that minors under the age of 18 who are found vaping or using tobacco products will be fined and have to attend a class. Teenagers who are 18 years old would face similar charges plus a class C misdemeanor for e-cigarette use or possession. Charges can also be added for anyone caught vaping on school property. For a full definition of tobacco and e-cigarette laws as they apply to persons under the age of 19, contact a juvenile defense attorney.