Many young adults who started vaping as teenagers are struggling to break the habit, a concerning trend that continues to impact this generation. The allure of flavored disposable vapes during college years has led to a significant rise in vaping addiction among young adults.

Individuals like G Kumar found themselves heavily reliant on vaping, going through a high number of puffs weekly and feeling a strong attachment to their vape pens. Despite knowing the harmful effects, many young adults find it challenging to quit due to the habitual nature of their vaping behavior.

According to Jacob Garza, a University of Colorado student, the desire to quit is prevalent among young vapers, but the addiction has become deeply ingrained over the years. Marketing strategies by e-cigarette companies, promoting appealing flavors and names, have contributed to the widespread experimentation with vaping among teenagers.

Research indicates that nicotine is particularly rewarding to the developing brains of young individuals, making them more susceptible to addiction. Recent data on substance use in adults aged 18-24 reveals that a significant portion of former teen vapers continue to use e-cigarettes, leading to an increase in vaping rates among young adults nationally.

Delaney Ruston, a primary care physician and filmmaker, emphasizes the social factors that often drive young people to start vaping in high school, with many continuing the habit into college and beyond. The rise in vaping prevalence among young adults in Colorado is particularly alarming, with a 61% increase in regular vaping among individuals aged 18 to 24 from 2020 to 2022.

These trends are significant, especially considering Colorado’s previous lead in youth vaping rates before the pandemic. While national vaping rates among high school students have decreased in recent years, the persistent challenge of vaping addiction among young adults remains a pressing public health concern.