Lake Region District Health Unit encourages e-cigarette education

Tobacco prevention coordinators at Lake Region District Health Unit have seen an increase in the number of youth using JUUL and JUUL-like devices (e-cigarettes). Parents in the Ramsey, Pierce, Benson and Eddy county areas are encouraged to learn what these vaping devices look like and to talk to their kids about the dangers of using these products.

A JUUL is a version of an e-cigarette that mimics the look of a USB stick, making it nearly impossible to spot. It charges with a laptop, fits in the palm of your hand and comes in flavors like mango, mint and fruit medley. One JUUL pod contains as much nicotine as one pack of cigarettes, or 200 puffs (juulvapor.com). Nicotine is a highly addictive drug and changes how the adolescent brain develops. JUULs are defined as electronic cigarettes under North Dakota law. This makes it illegal for anyone in ND under the age of 18 to purchase, possess or use one of these devices. In addition, it is illegal to use electronic cigarettes in public places and within 20 feet of public entrances.

In April 2018, the Truth Initiative, a national youth tobacco prevention campaign, conducted a national survey of more than 1,000 12- to 17-year olds. The survey found that 74 percent, nearly three quarters, of youth said they obtained a JUUL at a store or retail outlet. Just over half (52 percent) reported they received a JUUL from a social source, such as a friend or a family member. Although the internet was not the most common method for youth to obtain an electronic cigarette, nearly all youth who tried to buy the product online were successful.

“We want to educate parents so they know all of the different versions of e-cigarettes that do not look like a regular e-cigarette. The designs are very clever and are certainly designed at enticing our youth, they look like USB drives, cosmetic cases, pens and highlighters, and they are incredibly discreet,” said Liz Bonney, Tobacco and Alcohol and Drug Prevention Coordinator at Lake Region District Health Unit. “It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to purchase, possess or use an e-cigarette. We encourage parents to know the information and talk to their kids about the dangers of using these devices and confiscate them when you see them.”

Tobacco is still a problem in North Dakota. Lake Region District Health Unit is committed to reducing the toll tobacco has taken on our state. For more information on upcoming classes contact Liz Bonney at (701) 662-7022 or [email protected].