Youth vaping rates in Imperial County raises concern

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA) - 90% of teens in Imperial County who have ever used tobacco did so through vaping devices.

According to a study conducted by the California Youth Tobacco Survey in the county, the main ages of initiation range from 12 to 14-years-old.

For this reason, the Imperial County Public Health Department (ICPHD) continues its efforts through schools to raise awareness about the risks of tobacco use, which include nicotine addiction and mental health damage.

"Sadly, this is becoming a reality in high schools. So, we work with young adults, we collaborate with local schools, and where our efforts are to, again, prevent our community from this epidemic," said Dyane Nolasco, a tobacco health specialist with ICPHD.

High school students are the main consumers of vapes in the county, and despite being prohibited for minors, these products remain easily accessible.