State aims to educate parents, teens on dangers of vape pens, e-cigarettes

BOSTON — The Department of Public Health launched its first statewide public campaign on Wednesday to educate parents of young adults on the “new look” of nicotine addiction.

"The New Look of Nicotine Addiction" campaign aims to spread the word about the dangers of vape pens and e-cigarettes, which are becoming increasingly popular among teenagers.

According to the DPH, these high-tech products contain nicotine and can damage a teenager’s developing brain and lead to addiction.

Based on the latest statewide data on the health and risk behaviors of Massachusetts youth, nearly half of the state’s high school students have tried e-cigarettes at least once, and nearly a quarter of them said they used an e-cigarette in the past 30 days. That rate is nine times higher than adults.

“The health risks of using e-cigarettes and vaping pens for youth are clear,” said Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, MD. “Nicotine is addictive and has a negative impact on teen brain development, including increased risk for depression, mood disorders, and future substance misuse. That’s why educating parents on these risks is so important.”

The DPH’s new campaign will kick off on social media channels this week, as well as being plastered across bus stops and train stations. The department will also roll out a toolkit for schools with the start of the new school year.

RELATED: Mass. lawmakers using Canada's positive results to push for safe injection sites

Cox Media Group