Youth Vaping Crisis Grows as Misconceptions Cloud Health Risks

The rise of youth vaping has sparked significant concern among health officials and educators, with many young people starting their nicotine journey through e-cigarettes rather than traditional cigarettes. According to Caroline Le Clair, a dietitian with the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority, the trend is alarming. “Vaping is exploding,” she noted, emphasizing that many youths are turning to vaping as their first experience with nicotine.

Originally promoted as a smoking cessation tool, vaping has become a widespread habit among a generation that may never have used tobacco. Le Clair reported that approximately 69% of youths who vaped in the last month had never smoked a traditional cigarette. “They’re not switching from cigarettes; they’re starting with vaping,” she explained.

The perception that vaping is a safe alternative poses one of the biggest challenges. The attractive flavors and appealing packaging often mask the health risks. “Many flavored vapes smell great, so people think, ‘How can this be harmful?’” Le Clair said. She highlighted that most vape products contain a cocktail of chemicals, including propylene glycol and glycerol, which are not intended for inhalation.

Research on the long-term effects of vaping is ongoing. However, Le Clair pointed out significant short-term concerns. Nicotine can affect memory, concentration, and mood, particularly in adolescents whose brains are still developing. “Kids can become dependent on nicotine at much lower levels than adults,” she added.

Specific flavored additives also bring unique health risks. For instance, vanilla flavors can irritate lung tissue, while fruity flavors may inflame airways. Menthol, when inhaled in high amounts, could potentially harm the liver. “We just don’t fully know yet what years of this exposure will look like,” Le Clair stated. “But the early signs aren’t good.”

Concerns about youth vaping have prompted responses from various community members, including teachers, parents, and local sports organizations. Le Clair noted an influx of inquiries from schools and community leaders expressing worry over the prevalence of vaping. “The marketing really targets youth. Some of these devices look like candy or pens. They’re designed to blend in,” she explained.

In response to this growing issue, Le Clair participates in the region’s Tobacco, Vaping and Cannabis Committee. This group collaborates with public health officials, educators, and community stakeholders to raise awareness and implement preventative measures. “We realized we needed to start early,” she said. “By the time students reach high school, that peer pressure is already there. So we’re working to reach kids in Grade 6, before it starts.”

One initiative is the Anti-Vaping Poster Competition, which invites Grade 6 students to create posters that highlight the risks associated with vaping and promote a vape-free lifestyle. Set to run from November 1, 2025January 30, 2026, the contest aims to engage students in raising awareness about the dangers of vaping through artistic expression. Le Clair noted that the artwork will be shared online, in schools, and at flu clinics across the region.

“It’s incredible to see how powerful kids’ voices can be,” Le Clair remarked. “When they’re part of the message, it resonates with their peers in a way adults can’t replicate.” Last year, the competition attracted nearly 100 entries from schools throughout the Interlake, with rewards for winning students and classrooms, including funding for health-promotion projects. “It’s exciting,” Le Clair added. “They’re learning, creating, and leading change — that’s how prevention really begins.”

For more information or to submit an entry, interested parties can contact Caroline Le Clair at [email protected].

The urgency surrounding youth vaping calls for continued community engagement and education to combat this growing public health issue.