“It’s Not for You, Young Man” — A Chiropractic Perspective on Vaping and OurKids’ Health
BY DORTE BLADT
At The Family Chiro, we see all sorts of moments that make us smile. Recently, I watched a two-year-old rummage through his dad’s pockets while they waited for an adjustment. Among the loose coins and keys, the toddler triumphantly pulled out a shiny pink object and popped it in his mouth. Dad chuckled as he gently retrieved it, saying, “Oh no, that’s not for you, young man! I’ll get you one of your own when you’re a bit older.” What was it? An e-cigarette. I’ll be honest—I was shocked.
The Rise of Vaping Among Young People
E-cigarettes, or vapes, have surged in popularity over the past few years. Use among teens has doubled since 2019, and the numbers are still rising. With child- friendly flavours like bubblegum and watermelon, fun colours and targeted social media marketing, it’s no wonder young people are experimenting with them. One Australian study from 2022 found that 32% of teens aged 14–17 had tried vaping, with 16% using in the past month. Another reported that 14% of kids as young as 12 have already had their first vape. For some adults, vaping is seen as a “healthier” alternative to smoking—and many believe it can help them quit cigarettes. But the truth about vaping, especially for kids and teens, is far more concerning.
What’s Really in a Vape?
Many people assume e-cigarettes are harmless, especially if they don’t contain nicotine. But the vapour that’s inhaled—and exhaled into the air around us—is packed with harmful chemicals, even in “nicotine-free” versions. Here are just a few things that might be hiding in a vape cloud:
Carcinogenic compounds like formaldehyde and nitrosamines
Heavy metals such as lead, nickel, and tin
Ultrafine particles that damage lung tissue
Volatile organic compounds, often found in cleaning products and paint
Flavourings that may be safe to eat, but are toxic when inhaled
And if the vape contains nicotine, the risks go even higher.
Why Nicotine and the Developing Brain Don’t Mix
Nicotine exposure during childhood and adolescence is known to interfere with brain
development. This can have long-term consequences for:
Learning and memory
Emotional regulation and mood
Impulse control
Increased anxiety and attention issues
Studies also show that non-smokers who vape are three times more likely to start smoking cigarettes later in life. So while vaping is often marketed as a way to “quit” smoking, it can actually be a gateway for young people to pick up even more harmful habits.
Passive Vaping: The Hidden Exposure
Just like second-hand smoke, second-hand vapour from e-cigarettes isn’t harmless. The “cloud” released contains:
Nicotine (even in trace amounts)
Toxic particles and chemicals
Residue that lingers in indoor air
That means kids and babies near someone who vapes could still be affected—even if they’re not the ones holding the device.
What Can We Do?
At The Family Chiro, we care deeply about whole-body health, especially for the children and families we serve. Our role isn’t to lecture, but to educate, empower and support healthier choices. That includes helping young people understand the long- term effects of vaping—and supporting parents in creating environments that reduce toxic load.
Yours in Health,
Dorte and The Family Chiro Team
