Three new vape products are on the market, potentially exacerbating public health concerns.
Vaping can increase health risks among users for COPD, sleep problems, impulsivity, mood disorders, damaged smile, anhedonia and use of other drugs.
Here are three new vapes:
1. Replaceable cartridges that contain flavor.
The federal government banned flavors in vaping devices that could be refilled. So some vape companies turned to “disposable” vapes, filling them not only with exotic flavors but also 50,000 puffs or more. When they are empty, they are to be disposed. Now, Geek Bar and other companies have replaceable cartridges with nicotine plus flavors like Banana Vanilla, Vanilla Cheesecake, and Watermelon Bubblegum. Cartridges retail for $18.99.
2. Vapes that make calls and texts.
Vape companies are offering devices that can pair with a mobile phone and make calls, texts, take photos and find the phone. An example is the Vookbar. People can buy these for $13.99.
“That’s easily affordable for the average kid with a babysitting job,” said UW-CTRI Director Dr. Hasmeena Kathuria.
“And, as a pulmonologist, I’m concerned whenever people are inhaling chemicals, and I’ve treated patients who use these products. This is a serious public health issue.”
3. Vapes that look like snowcones.
Vape companies claim not to market to kids, but this vape device resembles a snow cone that’s popular with children.
SnowWolf offers two versions – one without nicotine and one with nicotine.
It sells for less than 10 bucks and comes in a variety of flavors such as Blue Cotton Candy and Apple Blue Razz.
While the FDA has not approved these products for sale, they are widely available online.
Your one-stop spot for the latest on vaping is the UW-CTRI Vaping Page.