E-cigarettes and vaping
Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs, vapes, JUUL, etc.) function on the principle of vaporizing a liquid that typically contains nicotine, flavoring agents (such as diacetyl), and other substances. Some e-cigarette devices resemble cigarettes, while others look like USB sticks and pens.
Health risks
| Nicotine is highly addictive. While some vape liquids are advertised to have zero nicotine, this has not always been found to be the case | |
| Nicotine can harm the developing brain. The brain keeps developing into the mid- 20s | |
| Some e-cigarette chemicals can cause lung and heart disease, as well as acute lung injury, asthma, and lung cancer | |
| E-cigarettes still require more research regarding long-term health risks | |
| To learn more see CDC |
Harm reduction tips, if you currently vape:
| Wash hands after handling e-cigarette liquid to help avoid contact to the skin or eyes | |
| Try to avoid mixing with other substances, like alcohol | |
| Be aware of the nicotine content of what you are smoking; some vapes use nicotine salts which allow higher levels of nicotine to be inhaled with more ease | |
| Be aware of the signs of nicotine poisoning so you know when to seek help |
Quitting strategies
| Build a supportive environment – Get rid of vapes, chargers, e-liquid replacements, or anything that reminds you of vaping. It may be helpful in the first few weeks to avoid gatherings/events that increase your desire to vape | |
| Let people know you are quitting, so they can help you with coping and resisting urges | |
| Schedule a medical appointment to discuss smoking cessation products with a Habif medical provider | |
| Utilize the 4 D’s: Delay (increase the time between cravings and nicotine consumption) Deep breathing Drink water to alleviate cravings and cope with nicotine withdrawal Distract yourself with sports or other activities to allow cravings to pass |
Resources
| How to Quit Smoking from the CDC | |
| Missouri’s Time to Change Smoking Cessation Resources | |
| Free Wellness Meeting: Students may schedule a 1:1 free, confidential appointment to receive support and discuss safer substance use: Visit the Student Health Portal and select “Alcohol and Other Drug- Wellness Meeting (initial).” | |
| WashU’s Tobacco-Free Policy |
Looking for information on other drugs?
Check out the National Institute on Drug Abuse for up-to-date information.