Over the past two decades, vaping has become increasingly common, often replacing traditional cigarettes, especially among young people. Vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, involves using an electronic device to turn a liquid into an aerosol that is inhaled. These aerosols often contain nicotine, which is highly addictive, along with other chemicals and flavorings that can carry health risks.

In this episode, our host sits down with Kira Koon, Health Educator at Sentara Health Plans, to break down the real dangers of vapes and e-cigarettes, both short-term and long-term. Kira also clears up common myths about vaping being a safer option than traditional smoking and explains why it can be just as harmful, if not more so, for young people.

The conversation looks at teen vaping trends and what makes youth especially vulnerable to nicotine addiction. Kira shares practical advice for parents on how to talk to their teens about vaping and what signs to watch for.

The episode wraps up with evidence-based ways to quit nicotine, what a realistic quit journey can look like, and the resources and support that can help along the way.

Key Topics Discussed

• Vapes, vaping, and e-cigarettes

• Tobacco products and how they’re marketed

• Nicotine and how nicotine addiction works

• Short-term and long-term health risks of tobacco and vaping

• Teen vaping trends and why youth are especially at risk

• How to talk to teens about vaping and nicotine use

• Evidence-based ways to quit, including smoking cessation programs

About the Guest

Kira is a Health Educator in the Health and Preventive Services department at Sentara Health Plans, where she develops health education programs and resources for both plan members and the wider community.

She holds a Master of Public Health degree from Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education and Promotion from James Madison University. She is also a Certified Health Education Specialist.

With nearly 20 years of experience in public health and health promotion, Kira’s work spans employee wellness, community health, grant management, and program development, implementation, and evaluation. She has worked across healthcare systems, national non-profits, academic institutions, and government agencies in areas including tobacco cessation, chronic disease prevention, injury prevention, behavioral health, and stress management.

Kira is passionate about making health resources relevant and accessible, and she is dedicated to helping individuals and groups along their health behavior change journey.

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To learn more about Sentara Health Plans and our range of health coverage options, visit sentarahealthplans.com. We’ve got you covered!

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Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast.

By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here.