Many people have known for years that cigarettes are bad. They have been called cancer sticks, lung tar, cancer rods, smoke sticks, coffin nails and lung busters. Despite this, people still smoke them, wondering why their health declines.

Now, big tobacco companies have introduced vapes into the picture offering fruity, mint, dessert, tobacco and beverage inspired flavors. I have known people who have been smoking vapes since middle school. These products became widespread and were easily available for young people to access. Today, vapes are everywhere because people enjoy the flavors and think they are healthier than cigarettes.    

However, vaping is bad because it puts heavy metals like nickel, tin and lead as well as cancer causing chemicals. Scientists are still studying the long term effects of e-cigarettes, but they already know that certain flavorings, such as discetyl, are linked to serious lung disease. Just because something is safe to eat does not mean it’s safe to inhale. The lungs and digestive function very differently, and inhaling these chemicals can cause damage. 

I remember in 2016 when anti-vaping commercials suddenly began popping up. By the time I got to high school, some of my peers had developed popcorn lung and had to be hospitalized. After recovering, they switched to cigarettes to stop vaping, and that only made them more addictive. 

Nicotine itself is highly addictive. Because of this, products like nicotine patches and Nicorette gum were created to help people quit. When someone stops using nicotine, their brain goes through withdrawal, which can cause symptoms like restless sleep, difficulty concentrating and irritability.

 I also remember fire drills at my high school caused by vape batteries exploding in trash cans in the bathrooms. These situations showed how dangerous these devices can be beyond just their health effects. 

Smoking and vaping are expensive habits. For example, my grandfather smokes about two packs a week, which cost around $100. While vaping may seem cheaper in comparison, it adds up over time. Whether cigarettes or vapes, the financial cost is high. 

My point is simple, smoking and vaping are harmful habits that damage your lungs and lead to addiction. Quitting is not easy, but it’s necessary for long term health. Instead of continuing to do it, people should take steps to stop it all together.

Protect your lungs. Quit vaping. Quit smoking.