A big problem from a small device: A call for vaping education in Capital District Schools

While the use of cigarettes is on the decline, e-cigarette products, which provide a nicotine high and a fruity flavor, are increasingly popular. "Vaping" is a common term among students for the use of such products. With the drastic increase in popularity, administrators are struggling to monitor the use of these easily-concealed products. My partner, Sunnah Yasin and I spent time researching this emerging epidemic under the supervision of Dr. Branden Eggan. Based on our knowledge of school policy changes in our region, we hypothesize local prevalence of use is higher than the national average and that education in our schools about the dangers of these products is lacking. Six Capital Region schools were surveyed to determine prevalence rates and trends. Preliminary data shows use in 9-12th graders at nearly 30% compared to the national average at 11.7% for 2017. Data was collected on health education, knowledge of risks and reasons for use; analysis is underway. We are hoping to assist schools in addressing this emerging epidemic.