What Cannabis and vaping are really doing to your body
Written by Ebrima Jobarteh, Public Health Education Intern
Vaping and cannabis use are more common than ever among young people.
In fact, more than 1.6 million young people in the United States use vaping or cannabis products, and about 1 in 4 young e-cigarette users vape every day.
It’s not just vapes
Part of what makes these products so popular is they often don’t look or feel dangerous. Vapes come in sleek, easy-to-hide devices and are available in flavors like candy, fruit, and desserts. Cannabis products take many forms too, including gummies that look like mainstream candy, drinks, oils, and vape cartridges.
But behind the flavors and trendy marketing are real health risks that can cause real harm to your lungs, brain, mental health, and future.
How vapes hook your brain
Most vaping products contain nicotine; the same highly addictive chemical found in cigarettes. Some vape devices can have as much nicotine as 20 cigarettes, making it easier for your body to become dependent on it without realizing it.
Over time, when dependence on nicotine has developed, nicotine can create cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making quitting much more difficult and uncomfortable.
Harm to your health
Smoking or vaping any substance can irritate the lungs and cause symptoms such as:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Increased mucus production
- Flu-like symptoms
Long-term use may also affect how efficiently your body delivers oxygen to important organs, including your brain and heart.
Emerging research also suggests that frequent cannabis use during adolescence may be associated with an increased risk of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and psychosis in people who may already be vulnerable.
Need support? We’re here for you.
If you’re concerned about your vaping or cannabis use, or you’re feeling pressure to try these products, you’re not alone. Talking with a trusted Corner Health provider can help you explore your options and find judgement-free and affordable support.
Your health, your goals, and your future matter. The more you know, the better equipped you are to make choices that work for you.
Your health, your goals, and your future matter. Get support today.
Sources
Wang, T. W., Gentzke, A. S., Creamer, M. R., Cullen, K. A., Holder-Hayes, E., Sawdey, M. D., Anic, G. M., Portnoy, D. B., Hu, S., Homa, D. M., Jamal, A., & Neff, L. J. (2019). Tobacco Product Use and Associated Factors Among Middle and High School Students — United States, 2019. MMWR. Surveillance Summaries, 68(12), 1–22. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.ss6812a1
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Results from the annual national youth tobacco survey (NYTS). (2025). https://www.fda.gov/tobacco-products/youth-and-tobacco/results-annual-national-youth-tobacco-survey-nyts
The Corner offers health and mental health care and supportive services for young people ages 12 to 25 to support their transition to and in early years of adulthood.
