In an effort to combat the rising trend of youth vaping, New York City is considering a new bill that mandates the installation of e-cigarette detectors in middle and high schools. This legislation, introduced by Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Queens), aims to eliminate vaping in schools and protect students’ lung health, amidst increasing concerns over the...
Vaping has become the most prevalent form of tobacco use among young people in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While many kids and teens express a desire to quit vaping, they often face significant challenges that prevent them from doing so. This article explores the misconceptions, social influences,...
In a world where misleading narratives about drug use pervade, the Can’t Say NO 2 Drugs project stands as a bold counteraction. This initiative, now in its second instalment, aims to dismantle the harmful rhetoric often propagated by pro-drug lobbyists. By questioning these toxic narratives, the project seeks to provoke thought and encourage a dialogue...
In the latest instalment of the Unnecessary Harm Podcast, Season 2 Episode 5, host Shane Varcoe takes listeners on an inspiring journey to Kerala, India, exploring the groundbreaking work of the 4th Wave Foundation. This eye-opening episode shines a spotlight on the foundation’s innovative approach to substance abuse prevention and community development, centred around their...
Alabama has enacted a groundbreaking educational initiative aimed at combating the opioid epidemic within its school systems. With the passing of HB 280, the state mandates that students from grades 6 through 12 receive comprehensive instruction on the dangers of fentanyl, beginning in the 2024-2025 academic year. This legislation is part of a broader effort...
As the new school year approaches, a troubling trend is emerging that targets the youth of America: the proliferation of illegal, teen-friendly disposable “smart vapes.” These devices are not your average vapes. They are equipped with high-definition digital screens and preloaded with video games, making them particularly appealing to teenagers. This disturbing innovation poses a...
Adolescence marks a critical period in the development of lifelong habits, including those related to alcohol use. A comprehensive cohort study published in JAMA Network Open delves into the complex factors influencing alcohol misuse trajectories from adolescence to young adulthood. This study employs latent growth curve modelling to analyse the impact of personality traits, social...
The issue of problem gambling is gaining recognition as a significant public health concern in the UK, with particular attention to its impact on children. GambleAware’s annual Treatment and Support Survey has brought to light alarming statistics regarding the extent to which children are affected by adults with gambling problems. This article explores these findings,...
Vaping has gained popularity among college students, often seen as a method to manage stress and anxiety. However, this habit poses significant oral health risks that are frequently overlooked due to the misconception that e-cigarettes are a safer alternative to traditional smoking. This article delves into why college students turn to vaping, the risks associated...
Spice, a synthetic cannabinoid, has emerged as a significant public health concern, particularly among teenagers. This potent substance, often marketed as a legal alternative to cannabis, poses severe health risks. A recent report highlights the troubling case of a 14-year-old boy who became addicted to Spice through vapes, shedding light on the broader issue of...