18 Sep The Dangers of Having E-Cigarettes Around Children
E-cigarettes, or vapes, have become one of the most prominent trends of the past few years. However, while many adults are switching to e-cigarettes, thinking they are a safer alternative to traditional tobacco products, many adults haven’t stopped to think about the impact that these devices have on their children.
There are many dangers associated with having e-cigarettes around little ones and the more parents know that these risks, the better prepared they will be to make a smart choice about their e-cigarette use.
What Are E-Cigarettes?
E-cigarettes, also known as vapes, heat up a e-liquid that has flavoring and different levels of nicotine in it. This e-cigarette then releases a vapor when it is heated up, instead of smoke. This is where the name “vaping” comes from. They have been regulated by the FDA for over 12 years and you must be 18 or older in order to purchase these products.
Since vaping, or e-cigarettes are relatively new, there still needs to be a great deal of research on these devices and their health effects, particularly with children. However, the first and most important thing for any adult to realize is that the “vapor” that is released into the air isn’t harmless water vapor. There are other chemicals, additives and nicotine in this vapor as well. This is also why every parent using e-cigarettes needs to be aware of the impact that these products can have on their children.
The Risks of Using E-Cigarettes Around Kids
If you are using e-cigarettes around children, it is important to remember that these e-cigarettes pose many of the same risks as regular tobacco cigarettes. While more research needs to be done, and while children won’t be inhaling the carcinogens of regular smoke when around e-cigarettes, this vapor can still harm a child’s health.
There are carcinogens, such as nitrosamines, in vapes that can cause cancer and while the long-term effects of second-hand exposure are still unknown, it is important to remember that this vapor is filled with chemicals.
In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is warning that exposure to nicotine, including secondhand exposure from e-cigarettes, can be dangerous to children. The group is also working to limit secondhand exposure by restricting and banning the use of these products where children live, learn and play.
Another thing for parents to remember is that no matter how safe they think they are being with their e-cigarettes, accidental ingestions do happen all of the time from improper e-cigarettes storage. Poison control centers are now getting more calls than ever about children accidentally ingesting liquid nicotine.
If you have more questions about e-cigarettes and their impact on your child’s health, call Continuum Pediatrics at 817-617-8600 to schedule an appointment today.