CDC & California Department of Health Issues Urgent Alert For People to Stop Vaping!

Both the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) and the California Department of Health have issued urgent alerts regarding the risks of vaping and E-cigarette use in the past couple weeks. 

This is a summary of those alerts:

• As of October 8, 2019, 1299 lung injury cases associated with the use of e-cigarette, or vaping products have been reported to the CDC from 49 states

• In California, since June 2019, 102 cases of vaping associated pulmonary injury have been reported to the California Department of Public Health

• 26 deaths have been confirmed in 21 states

• All patients have reported a history of using e-cigarette or vaping products

• Most patients report a history of using THC containing products, but exclusive use of nicotine containing products has also been reported by patients with lung injury cases, and many patients with lung injury reported use of THC and nicotine containing products

• The CDC and CDPH recommend that individuals should not use e-cigarette or vaping products altogether, no matter the substance or the source.  

• The CDPH goes further stating: “Consumers put themselves at risk anytime they inhale a foreign substance into their lungs.  Vape liquids contain several dangerous chemicals, some of which cause developmental harm, or are known to cause cancer, birth defects, and other reproductive harm.  Vaping nicotine and cannabis is especially dangerous for youth, whose developing brains are more vulnerable to those neurotoxins. Additionally pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use these products.” 

Here at Elevated Health we have helped many patients stop smoking, using e-cigarettes, or using vaping products.  There are many options depending on the substance and the situation. Please let us know if you or anyone you know and love needs help!

About The Author

Paul McKinley is a well-trained, experienced, and accredited family physician offering a range of specialties including medicine management, outpatient procedures, sports medicine, and general health concerns. Emphasizing preventive alternatives to treatment and care, he adapts his approach to each patient – making it personalized and unique to their condition. Valuing time spent with patients and real relationships; he finds unique opportunities to help them live healthier lives.

With expertise in private practice and as a Medical Director in Chicago for Iora Health, a leader in direct primary care services; Paul is well versed in assisting patients in both the office and hospital. Paul is also trained in the science of longevity medicine program, which aims to prevent chronic diseases and increase the healthspan of a patient.