Vaping has been marketed as a healthier alternative to cigarette smoking, but this hobby had become particularly popular with the youth.
In 2018, over 3.6 million middle schoolers and high schoolers were found to be using e-cigarettes.1. Even worse, 66% of teens believe that their e-cigarettes only contain flavoring and only 13.2% cite the presence of nicotine.2
With the lack of knowledge among teen vapers and the long-term effects of vaping still largely unknown, many people believe that users should proceed with caution. Because the youth have taken a particular interest in this risky activity, states like Florida are looking to raise the vaping age to 21.
Changing Florida’s Legal Vaping Age
Just this year, legislatures have been voting to increase the vaping age in Florida to 21. Currently, Florida’s vaping age is 18, but this new law (SB 810) would categorize vaping products and e-cigarettes as tobacco products, making only those 21 and older able to buy them. Florida isn’t the first state to make this change, and in fact, the new law would match federal laws that went into effect in January.Although many representatives have voted in favor of this bill, this new law is not official yet. Some representatives are against this bill, and in order to try and compromise, several changes have been made as the bill get passed back and forth between these two bodies. For now, the details regarding flavored products, official classifications, and retailer guidelines are still to be determined.
Even if Florida raises the vaping age to 21, vape users should be careful. Although e-cigarettes are often described as a healthier alternative to regular cigarettes, they are not without their risk. Along with possible long-term health issues, e-cigarettes also contain nicotine in varying and unregulated amounts. Not only is nicotine addictive, but it may also be a gateway drug. Users of these products may be more inclined to try harder drugs than those who do vaping. Many vapers may also experiment by vaping other drugs. These substances can be addictive, which can turn into a substance abuse problem that requires the attention of professional detox or residential treatment programs.
At our Boca detox center, we have worked with several patients who have started out misusing substances that they believed to be harmless before ultimately developing much more severe dependency issues. Do not stand by and let this happen to you or a loved one.
Get help for a substance abuse problem before it gets more serious by calling 888-280-4763. At Banyan Detox Stuart, we will be there for you and your loved ones every step of the way.
Sources:
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.
