In a new report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found nearly 80 percent of people across the nation who have been hospitalized for lung injuries related to e-cigarettes or vaping obtained marijuana products through sources such as family or friends, online or on the street.
According to the CDC study, 82 percent of patients nationwide who were hospitalized with vaping-related illnesses reported using tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-containing e-cigarettes, and 78 percent reported acquiring the products from informal sources.
Only 16 percent of patients reported purchasing products from commercial sources, including recreational or medical dispensaries, and vape or smoke shops.
The CDC has linked most of the illnesses to vitamin E acetate, an additive in some THC-containing vaping products. However, health officials are continuing to investigate other substances and product sources for a possible link to vaping-related illnesses.
“This study reinforces existing CDC and FDA recommendations that people not use THC-containing e-cigarette, or vaping, products, particularly from informal sources like friends, family, or in-person or online sellers,” according to the CDC website.
Teenagers ages 13- to 17-years-old are the most likely to obtain THC vaping products.
As of January 7, 2,602 people across the country have been hospitalized due to using e-cigarette or vaping products. There have been 57 confirmed deaths reported in 27 states and Washington, D.C.
(Some information in this story courtesy of Patch.com)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
