Vaping among kids is increasing across the US, with teens in rural areas at the highest risk.
Wyoming had the highest rate of youth vaping, followed by West Virginia and Alaska.
Research has linked vaping to health risks like lung damage, cancer, and asthma.
Some states, like California, have strict regulations to combat youth vaping.
The FDA has taken steps to curb vape use, including banning flavored nicotine products.
Vaping among teenagers is rapidly increasing across the United States, with a recent study showing that rural areas have the highest rates of youth e-cigarette use. Wyoming topped the list, with one in three teens vaping despite strict laws prohibiting the sale to those under 21. On the other hand, California had the lowest rate of vaping due to Governor Gavin Newsom’s tough regulations. The harmful effects of vaping on young people, including irreversible lung damage and cancer, are becoming more evident as research continues to mount.
Additionally, states like West Virginia and Alaska also had high rates of teen vaping, with West Virginia ranking as the unhealthiest state overall for raising children. These states have fewer restrictions on e-cigarettes and higher rates of adult smoking, contributing to the issue. In contrast, California and Washington had the lowest rates of youth vaping due to strict laws and regulations. The FDA has taken steps to curb vaping by banning flavored nicotine products unless approved and ordering certain products off the market for further review. It is important for parents, educators, and policymakers to address this growing concern and protect young people from the dangers of vaping.
