Recently with the influx of reported lung illnesses and death associated with the use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices, we had the opportunity to participate in a special teleconference with Division 38 (Health Psychology) of the American Psychological Association (APA). The current research and findings are not only astounding, but concerning for medical providers and the community at large.
1) VAPING AS A SMOKING CESSATION TOOLS
The introduction of gum, spray/inhalers, patches, or medications have demonstrated minimal, if any, impact on the overall cessation of smoking. Research suggests that the nicotine in these products does not mirror nicotine in smoking, and the uptake of nicotine is “too slow.”
2) THE RISE OF THE E-CIGARETTE
Behavioral science noted that for smoking cessation products to be reinforcement for quitting, there needed to be a specific equation of both nicotine and sensory stimuli (ritual, taste, smell, etc.). This led to the rise of the E-Cigarette, a “less-toxic” product that mirrored a cigarette.
3) WHAT IS VAPING?
Vaping simply defined is “the act of inhaling an aerosol produced by heating a substance to the point of aerosolization, but lower than combustion.” E-cigarettes have morphed into vaporizers, pod mods, JUUL, vape pens, and so on.
4) WHO IS VAPING?
Current research trends show that the greatest use of vaping material occurs between the ages of 18 and 44. Simply put, the majority of older adults either quit smoking or continue with traditional combustible smoking (cigarettes). Vaping does not lead to the cessation of smoking.
5) ALARMING TRENDS IN VAPING
Young adults are more likely to have never been smokers prior to vaping.
Since the advent of JUUL (specifically), there has been an epidemic in youth vaping, with over 21% admitting to vaping within the past 30 days.
The advent of new “vaporizers” and flavors are increasing the likelihood of use.
Off-brand vaping juice, including THC pods are now available.
6) WHY THE INCREASE IN YOUTH?
Simply put, science. While adults are more likely to use flavored vaping liquid, fMRIs have shown a direct correlation with the pleasure areas of the brain. Currently, there are over 15,000 flavors (including Unicorn Vomit). There are even “flavor menus” available like your favorite soda fountain. Flavors make the experience pleasurable, mask the nicotine flavor, and they have massive marketing, a new culture, and online forums for “tricking” (vaping smoke tricks).
Some youth are not even educated to the fact that nicotine is present in many vaping forms. A recent survey showed that around 9% of youth did not believe that JUUL had nicotine (even though there is no “non-nicotine version of JUUL), which is currently the most popular vaping instrument used by youth.
7) WHY THE SUDDEN INFLUX OF USE AND PROBLEMS?
Vaping, unlike cigarettes has become customizable. You can now control your levels of nicotine, health, and smoke levels. With the advent of nicotine salts, users can now customize the level of nicotine and even free-base it.
With the advent of increased power in vaping devices, users can now increase the amount of nicotine experienced. Research has shown that even mid-level vaping machines can increase the intake levels of nicotine (or THC) by four times the normal amount.
8) VAPING RELATED ILLNESSES
While the research is still pending, the current functioning hypothesis is that when vaping machine boils off the liquid, oils are left. It is then introduced as an aerosol into the lungs. While many flavors are digestible (natural), there is no research to demonstrate that it is breathable.
9) NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL CONCERNS WITH VAPING
Even at low levels, nicotine is highly addictive, especially to the adolescent brain. Research currently demonstrates notable changes in learning, memory, attention processes, and hyperactivity. We also see increased addictive behaviors, epigenetic changes in genes involved with asthma, and increases in depression.
As always, the Neuropsychology staff at Tanner Clinic is here to help and answer your questions. We strive to provide appropriate, evidence-based evaluations consistent with the most recent research. We accept all insurances and with regular new patient spots we are able to provide timely evaluations.
–-Dr. Benjamin D. Christiansen, PsyD, LP
Clinical Neuropsychologist
