KCTC Student Survey reports Marion County exceeds state in e-cigarettes use

Vaping has been promoted as a safer alternative to tobacco smoking; however, more and more researchers as well as health experts, are warning individuals of the dangers of vaping—the devastating physical effects as well as the long-term addictive effects.

Kansas already has two reported deaths as a result of vaping, with many more victims suffering the ravaging consequences. Although locals tend to think Marion County is not affected, the 2019 Kansas Communities That Care Student Survey indicates that 13.27 6th, 8th, 10th and 12th graders in Marion County use E-Cigarettes in comparison to 12.60 of those from Kansas schools statewide.

Although advertised as safer than traditional smoking, researchers have proven that one vape pod is the equivalent of more nicotine than 20+ cigarettes. This is to say nothing of the many other carcinogenic chemicals ingested through vaping.

Although vaping companies supposedly appeal to the adult population, many have zeroed in on adolescents, targeting teens with appealing flavors. Their strategy is working.

“One in six high school students reported vaping in the past month,” warns the Surgeon General, and the Centre for Disease Control reports an estimated 20 percent of all high school students now vape—an increase of approximately 1.5 million students in just one year.

To help parents understand the dangers of vaping, what to look for, and how to prevent the problem, Families and Communities Together, Inc.’s Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition, Marion County Health Department, and Marion County Extension Services are collaboratively hosting a Town Hall Meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 16 in the Marion Community Building Basement.

The presenter is Crystal Dalmasso, a Community Support Specialist at DCCCA and certified trainer for Substance Abuse Prevention Skills Training and Ethics in Prevention. The meeting is a county-wide event, and all Marion County parents are encouraged to attend.

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