Vaping (E-Cigarettes)

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On October 1, 2019October 1, 2019By In Uncategorized

Vaping (E-Cigarettes)

We have previously done a blog post on the lack of information surrounding the safety of using e-cigarettes (also known as vaping). In light of the recent news regarding vaping here is an update.

Vaping related Illnesses in the United States

  • More than 800 cases of lung disease and illness in 33 states
  • 14 deaths have occurred
  • Majority of those affected are young adults however all ages have been affected
  • Most individuals are in respiratory distress. Ie. lungs are filled up with fluid preventing optimal oxygen to help the rest of the body function. 
  • All patients have in common the use of e-cigarettes. Some have also used THC a cannabinoid in the e-cigarettes 

Symptoms

  • Difficulty breathing 
  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing
  • Chest pain 

Also: 

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss 

Canada 

  • So far there has been 1 confirmed cases of illness and 1 case that is under investigation in Canada
  • Medical professionals are keeping a close eye on this and have encouraged nation-wide reporting on any instances of lung disease/ respiratory distress and use of e-cigarettes. 

What Should Be Done? 

  • The US Center for Disease Control has advised against using e-cigarettes
  • Health Canada has also advised against the use.
  • Ongoing investigations are occurring to determine the exact cause of these widespread illnesses

References: 

Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Outbreak of lung illness associated with using e-cigarettes products. September 6th, 2019. Accessed: September 9th, 2019. <https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html>

Health Canada. Information Update: Health Canada warns of potential risk of pulmonary illness associated with vaping products. September 4th, 2019. Accessed Sept 8th, 2019. <https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2019/70919a-eng.php>

Jones, A. Canadian Officials monitor reports of vaping-linked illnesses and death in the US. The National Post. September 6th, 2019. Accessed September 6th, 2019. <https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/canadian-officials-monitor-reports-of-vaping-linked-illnesses-in-the-u-s> . 

Weeks, C., Official says vaping related lung disease has yet to reach Canada. The Globe and Mail. August 22nd, 2019. Accessed August 22nd, 2019. <https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-official-says-vaping-related-lung-disease-yet-to-reach-canada/>