In January, Illinois updated the Smoke Free Illinois Act (SFIA) by passing a new state law that prohibits e-cigarette use in
indoor public spaces and outdoors within 15 feet of any entrance, exit, open window, or ventilation intake of a public
place of employment. In an effort to strengthen education on the hazards of vaping, Southern 7 Health Department
(S7HD) is working closely with regional schools, businesses, and others to provide resources and community support
designed to reach teen users.
E-Cigarettes are defined as any product containing or delivering nicotine or any other substance intended for human
consumption that can be used for the purpose of inhaling vapor or aerosol from the product. Through the health
department’s “CATCH My Breath” vaping prevention program, students and staff learn about e-cigarettes, their hazards,
and how to quit if that’s their choice.
While youth e-cigarette use has declined since 2019, it remains a serious public health problem for teens. According to
the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS), over 2.1 million U.S. kids used e-cigarettes in 2023. Of those, nearly
40% of high school e-cigarette users vaped at least 20 days a month, and nearly 30% reported vaping every day; a sign
they’re becoming addicted.
“It seems like we get requests weekly for our vaping prevention curriculum,” said Sydney Shelton, S7HD Health
Educator. “We are seeing the dangers on an intimate scale, where not only teachers, but principles, superintendents,
and even parents are concerned.”
One of the biggest challenges faced by Southern 7 Health Educators is the myth that vaping is a healthier alternative to
traditional cigarettes and can help someone stop smoking. In reality, some studies show that e-cigarettes are more
addictive with their higher concentration of nicotine and are easier to use than cigarettes. Nicotine is a highly addictive
drug and can harm adolescent brain development, particularly the parts of the brain responsible for attention, memory,
and learning.
“One of the most hazardous aspects of e-cigarettes is that they are still so new that scientists have no clue what the
long-term health effects will be,” said Shelton. “It’s scary and you’d think that would be enough for people to stop using
them.”
Southern 7 Health Department utilizes the Illinois Tobacco Quitline, which is a partnership between IDPH, the Tobacco
Control Program, and the American Lung Association, to help users 13 and older stop vaping. Free and anonymous
access is available by calling 866-QUIT-YES (784-8937) or visiting www.QuitYes.org.
For more information on the “CATCH My Breath” vaping prevention program visit www.southern7.org to listen their Say
“Yes” to No Vaping podcast or call 618-634-2297.
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