(NC) Vaping is not harmless, yet Canadian teens are trying vaping products. Research from a recent Health Canada Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey showed that 23 per cent of students in grades 7 to 12 (secondary I to V in Quebec) have tried an e-cigarette.

Many young people may not understand that while vaping is a less harmful alternative for people who smoke when they switch completely, it is not for youth and non-smokers. Vaping can increase their exposure to harmful chemicals and lead to nicotine addiction. Nicotine is known to alter teen brain development and can affect memory and concentration. Exposure to nicotine during adolescence may also cause reduced impulse control and cognitive and behavioural problems.

We are still learning more about how vaping affects health. The long-term health impacts are unknown.

If you’re worried about your child using or potentially using vaping products, talk to them about it.

Get the facts about vaping online, including a parent tip sheet at canada.ca/vaping.

www.newscanada.com