It is estimated that roughly 40 percent of Americans in the mid-1960s smoked cigarettes. Tobacco use saw a steep decline in popularity when the U.S. surgeon general issued a report that famously concluded that smoking was a probable cause for lung cancer.
Today, most people understand that smoking is harmful to their health. Over the last decade, however, vaping has emerged as an alternative nicotine product that could pose significant health risks for younger people — especially in the era of COVID-19.
In this episode, Daniel Fitzgerald of the American Lung Association shares the compelling reasons adults and adolescents should be cautious about vaping. He describes the public health challenges regarding vaping and discusses the cycle of addiction that could linger with users for years.
Fitzgerald, who started as a youth advocate, also gives a personal story that highlights the far-reaching consequences of using nicotine at an early age. A spokesperson for the TRUTH Initiative, Fitzgerald has contributed to Rhode Island’s efforts to reduce the impact of tobacco.
Tune in for another exciting episode that explores an emerging public health concern. You’ll hear Dr. Jim McDonald and Dr. Philip Chan raise important questions that parents and teens may be wondering.
********************************************************************
For free, confidential, and personalized resources to help teens ages 13-17 quit smoking or vaping nicotine, please visit mylifemyquit.com. Teens and adults may also call the free Rhode Island Nicotine Helpline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) to get customized quit coaching sessions by phone at times convenient to them (day or night) and more free resources to help them quit for good.