Vaping injuries top 1,000, deaths reach 18
The number of lung injuries from e-cigarette use, or vaping, has now topped 1,000, according to the CDC, while 18 deaths have been reported as of Oct. 1. The rise in deaths and number of cases comes as the CDC is still investigating with states on the cause of the lung injuries.
The CDC reported there were 1,080 lung injury cases associated with vaping across 48 states and 1 U.S. territory. The 18 deaths have been confirmed in 15 states. So far, the CDC has only determined that most patients with confirmed lung injuries linked to vaping used THC-containing products. Last month, the CDC reported around 800 confirmed cases.
Amid the outbreak, which has not shown signs of slowing, the agency has warned that individuals not purchase or use products off the street or tamper with e-cigarette products. Those who are concerned for their health from vaping are also advised not to use the products.
The outbreak has also highlighted the unregulated market of vaping and led the Trump administration to announce it will ban non-tobacco flavored e-cigarettes products.
Amy joined TriMed Media as a Senior Writer for HealthExec after covering home care for three years. When not writing about all things healthcare, she fulfills her lifelong dream of becoming a pirate by sailing in regattas and enjoying rum. Fun fact: she sailed 333 miles across Lake Michigan in the Chicago Yacht Club "Race to Mackinac."