Experimenting with substances and activities is common as you get older, but it’s up to you to make informed choices and take responsibility for your own health and wellbeing.
This resource was developed with young Australians for young Australians to show the facts, raise the issues, and provide advice on vaping and e-cigarettes and how to take action when it comes to the risks.
Vaping is not safe and can lead to various health issues. Vape liquids can contain toxic substances like formaldehyde (used in glue), propylene glycol (found in paint), and nicotine. These chemicals can cause irreversible lung damage, are toxic to human cells, and can harm brain development, particularly in areas controlling attention, learning, mood, and behaviour.
Products are marketed to look appealing and are often promoted on social media, making them seem cool and harmless. Many young people vape because it’s perceived as easy to access, cheaper than cigarettes, and socially acceptable. Influences from friends, family, and online trends also contribute to its popularity.
Vape products are not well-regulated, meaning their contents are often unknown and potentially dangerous. Even ‘nicotine-free’ products can contain nicotine. As awareness of the dangers of cigarettes has increased, fewer people are using them, which is great news. However, companies that develop these products now use glossy and sneaky social media marketing to make vaping look as cool as possible. While vaping might sound harmless, it has the potential to cause serious and lasting damage to your lungs and body.
If you want to take action against vaping, you can lead by example. Being a role model is one of the best ways to show you’re making good choices for your health and your body, and it helps your friends do the same. For more information about looking after your lung health visit www.lungfoundation.com.au
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