Canada's medical officers of health are very concerned about the increasing number of youth turning to vaping.
The Council of Chief Medical Officers of Health said it is alarmed about the emergence of severe pulmonary illness related to vaping in the United States and Canada. The council is also very concerned about the substantial rise of vaping among Canadian youth, creating a new generation of youth addicted to nicotine and possibly a resurgence in smoking.
Youth are particularly susceptible to nicotine's negative effects, which can include altering their brain development and affecting their memory and concentration.
The vapers are made up of in a mixture of chemicals, such as nicotine, solvents, cancer-causing chemicals like formaldehyde, heavy metals and flavourings.
It is also not clear what underlying risk there may be from inhalation of ultra-fine particles created by the mechanism of vaping technology that permits inhalation deep into the lung.
The council has issued a statement calling on everyone to refrain from using e-cigarettes or vaping products, especially illegal products, including any that contain THC. It also suggests that anyone who has recently used vaping products and has symptoms of pulmonary illness see a healthcare provider immediately.
The council wants stronger regulatory policies that restrict the accessibility and availability of vaping products and reduce the appeal of such products to youth.