New research reveals that youth vaping has reached an all-time low, with the CDC reporting only 5.9% of middle and high school students using e-cigarettes in 2024, down from 2023's 5.9% or 2.13 million users.
Despite this decline, medical experts express concern over the long-term health effects of vaping, particularly among teenagers. Doctors at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital initiated a study due to the rising number of teens suffering from E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use Associated Lung Injury (EVALI), which can lead to severe breathing difficulties.
Dr. Kaitlyn Boggs emphasizes the harmful substances found in vapes, including glycerin and formaldehyde, which are known carcinogens. The study involves 50 teens, 60% of whom have vaped at least once. Participants undergo ultrasounds to visualize lung health, as healthy lungs appear clear while damaged lungs show distinct vertical lines.
The research aims to identify early signs of lung damage in asymptomatic teens, promoting education about vaping's risks before they reach adulthood. The first part of the study is set to conclude by fall 2025, with final results expected in 2026.