The dangers of marijuana vaping and its impact on our youth
dangers of vaping marijuana. Recent data reveals that marijuana vaping is on the rise, with over one-fifth of high school seniors admitting to vaping marijuana within the past year. Coupled with the alarming news of vaping-related illnesses and deaths, it’s clear that there’s a serious concern at hand.
Why should you be worried?
- More high school students are vaping marijuana
- Some marijuana vape ingredients have been linked to serious illnesses and even death
- Vaping could interfere with adolescent brain development
The How and Why of Marijuana Vaping
Like nicotine vaping devices, marijuana vapes work by heating a liquid or oil that transforms into vapor, which is then inhaled. Brands like PAX offer marijuana vaporizers that resemble popular nicotine vapes. The internet is rife with tutorials on how to modify these devices for marijuana use.
The Risks to Teens
Marijuana vaping poses a significant threat to two essential organs in adolescents: the brain and lungs. The developing adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to marijuana’s effects, which can hinder the growth of crucial skills like problem-solving and impulse control. Research has shown that teens using marijuana are twice as likely to become addicted compared to adults.
Impacts of marijuana on the developing adolescent brain include:
- Difficulty with critical thinking skills
- Impaired reaction time and coordination
- Decline in school performance
- Increased risk of mental health issues
Furthermore, thousands of lung injuries and deaths have been linked to vaping devices containing THC and Vitamin E Acetate, an additive found even in regulated products from marijuana dispensaries.
Symptoms of EVALI, a vaping-related lung illness, include:
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Low oxygen levels
- Lung failure and death (in severe cases)
Is Your Child Vaping Marijuana?
Vaping can be hard to detect due to the lack of smoke and minimal odor. However, signs such as bloodshot eyes, dry mouth, increased appetite, and behavioral changes could indicate your child is vaping marijuana. Vaping paraphernalia can also provide clues, so it’s important to stay vigilant and maintain open communication with your child about these risks.
