The purpose of the Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL) is simple: help people, especially young people, reduce tobacco use, prevent smoking, and help people quit.

TFL reports that nearly one in three high-school aged students vape. Even worse, nearly one in five middle school-aged children also vape. These students are motivated by several factors, including peer pressure, wanting to look cool, family vaping, curiosity, flavors, and the buzz, without appreciating the negative impact on brain development.

“Nicotine use in younger people is risky because it affects their brain development. It also harms their lungs,” Mitzi LaSalle, the Regional Manager for TFL, explained. “The biggest problem is that young people often don’t realize the health risks.”

While the use of tobacco at any age carries health risks, “the main difference is that teens’ brains are still developing and using nicotine during these years can have serious effects on brain growth,” LaSalle added.

LaSalle advocates that parents and guardians take an active approach in steering children away from nicotine and tobacco products. “Parents, don’t be afraid to research and learn about the harmful effects of these products,” said LaSalle. “Talk to your kids about it. When you start the conversation, you’ll find they probably already know about it, so you’re not introducing something new.”