Important Vaping Update
Our first article about the dangers associated with e-cigarettes was posted in September. Since that time the FDA and CDC have been working with state health agencies to determine a cause for the outbreak of respiratory illnesses which resulted in the hospitalization of thousands of people. As of November 20, 2019, the CDC received reports of 2,290 vaping related lung injuries. What’s worse is that 47 people have died!
Research into the cause of vaping related illness and death have yielded interesting data. Initially, the focus was on teens being lured to use e-cigarettes by manufacturer advertisements directed at them and with fruity flavored, but addictive, products. With bad publicity and a mounting number of lawsuits, manufacturers like Juul have stopped selling most flavored products. But vaping dangers also extend to adults. In fact, the median age of 47 people who have died is 53! While there hasn’t a common cause identified for these vaping illnesses and deaths, it is becoming clear that bootleg products containing THC contain vitamin E acetate, an oil which when inhaled can cause serious respiratory conditions. Vitamin E is safe when eaten or applied to the skin, but it’s harmful when inhaled into your lungs.
If you use these e-cigarette products, be aware that testing is ongoing to determine exactly what you are inhaling. NBC News recently reported that a stew of dangerous chemicals, including formaldehyde and hydrogen cyanide, maybe in the vapor. Formaldehyde and cyanide! The CDC recommends that people do not use THC-containing e-cigarette, or vaping products. They also recommend that people should not:
- Buy any type of e-cigarette, or vaping, products, particularly those containing THC from informal sources like friends, or family, or in-person or online dealers.
- Modify or add any substances to e-cigarette, or vaping, products that are not intended by the manufacturer, including products purchased through retail establishments
Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith has been representing injured people and their families for over 95 years. When the firm was formed in 1927, e-cigarettes and the term “vaping” didn’t exist. Times change, but the firm’s principles, values, and commitment to the community remain. If you or a loved one have been seriously injured, please call us for a free consultation.
Blog written by Partner Steven Clarfield.
