cancel
Showing results for 
Show  only  | Search instead for 
Did you mean: 

School policies and curriculum to address the use of e-cigarettes

NDC_Team
Mayo Clinic
1 1 173

Vaping is increasing at an alarming rate as are the related health concerns. The CDC has received almost 500 reports on severe pulmonary problems being caused by e-cigarette products.  A sixth death suspected to be caused by vaping has now been reported in Kansas.  The Surgeon General has declared e-cigarette use among young people as an epidemic, and advises immediate action.

 

As September unfolds, and our children settle into the school routine, it may be a good time to ask your school what they are doing to address e-cigarette use.  School policy and education can have an important impact for protecting our young people and preventing the spread of e-cigarette use.

 

Two good resources for schools have become available.  The Public Health Law Center has developed suggested school policies to address tobacco use and vape products in school.    The policy model includes suggestions for helping students who are found to be using tobacco products on school grounds and progressive responses for students who violate the policies.

 

The American Lung Association has developed an educational program for schools INDEPTH (Interventions for Nicotine Dependence: Education, Prevention, Tobacco and Health.).  The program provides step by step guides to implement an educational and counseling program in schools.  It requires prior completion of an online training for adults prior to their delivering the curriculum.

 

If you have children in school, know what your school is doing to address vaping and e-cigarette use. 

Dr. Hays

1 Comment
About the Author
The Nicotine Dependence Center at Mayo Clinic has been home to physicians, nurse practitioners, Master’s / PhD level counselors, trained TTS’, and amazing office staff for a total of 30 years, all working together to treat individuals who struggle with tobacco use. Counselors meet with an individual to develop their own personalized plan, discuss coping strategies, and provide ongoing support along the journey towards a tobacco-free life. As part of the process, counselors work with physicians and nurse practitioners to provide nicotine replacements and other medications for smoking cessation as needed. We are happy to be involved with the EX Community and we hope our experiences and expertise can help in your journey towards a tobacco-free life. View the link in our signature to see our individual Biographies.