Pediatrics & Therapeutics
Open Access
ISSN: 2161-0665
+44 1478 350008
ISSN: 2161-0665
+44 1478 350008
Karen Duderstadt
UCSF School of Nursing, USA
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Pediat Therapeut
Background & Aims: The rapid increase in marketing and availability of Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) globally in the past few years has resulted in significant trends in youth vaping. Methods: E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices that deliver a nicotine-containing aerosol or vapor by heating a solution of nicotine, a glycerin derivative-propylene glycol or glycerol, and flavoring agent. E-cigarette use rose among youth in the US from 3.3% in 2011 to 6.8% in 2012. The trial and use of e-cigarettes has been higher among youth in Europe and Asia. Results: Recent evidence supports the adverse health consequences of early initiation of smoking among youth. Cognitive maturation is occurring throughout adolescence, and exogenous nicotine exposure and cigarette use in adolescence has been associated with both longterm structural and functional changes in the brain including lasting cognitive and behavioral impairments, including disrupted memory, attention, and executive function. The adolescent brain exhibits greater reward effects from nicotine exposure than adults, making youth more susceptible to a life-long battle with nicotine addiction. Conclusions: This presentation will address the prevalence of e cigarette use among youth, evidence on the effect of initiation of e-cigarette use and conventional cigarettes, current policies globally on e-cigarettes and recommendations to protect the health of children and youth.
Email: karen.duderstadt@ucsf.edu