Vaping prevention program shared with Idaho students

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - Representatives from CATCH My Breath, an evidence-based vaping prevention program, are visiting schools in eastern Idaho this week.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration says it is the only school-based program of its kind that has been proven to reduce the chances of vaping in youth.

During the program’s presentations, students and teachers are trained on the dangers of vaping, what to do when offered e-cigarettes, and how to help people who are addicted to vaping.

According to Eastern Idaho Public Health, the average age students first vape is 13 years old, which is why CATCH My Breath starts as soon as the 5th grade.

Diacetyl, a chemical that can be found in vape flavorings, is linked to an irreversible lung disease called popcorn lung. Nicotine causes addiction, which can lead to permanent changes in the brain.

They say secondhand vaping can be just as harmful as firsthand. The same toxins, nicotine and ultrafine particles exist in all forms of vaping.

To learn more about CATCH My Breath, visit catch.org/program/vaping-prevention/.