Raleigh, N.C. – On Saturday, Oct. 24, the Poe Center for Health Education hosted its inaugural joint “Vaping 101” class, bringing together parents and their teenage children for a frank discussion about the health risks of e‑cigarettes. The program, traditionally split into separate sessions for adults and youth, was designed to foster family dialogue and empower both generations with accurate information.
Local need highlighted by state data
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, one in five high school students and one in ten middle‑schoolers report using a vape. While usage has shown a modest decline in the early 2020s, the habit remains a pressing public‑health concern, especially as flavored products continue to attract younger users.
Program leaders stress early prevention
Veteran substance‑use prevention instructor Susan Bragg Foster, who has taught at the Poe Center for 13 years, explained that the rapid rise of vaping caught many families off guard. “Vaping entered our lives very abruptly,” Foster said. “We had to quickly catch up on the limited information available and help our communities, families, and youth get up to speed.” She emphasized that early education is key to preventing addiction later in life.
Parents and teens share experiences
Two families attended the pilot session. Henry Torosyan, whose 13‑year‑old son is about to enter high school, noted the timing was crucial. “He’s transitioning to high school next year, so this is the kind of danger timeline zone,” Torosyan said. He admitted learning new facts himself, adding, “I didn’t realize vaping was as addictive and as detrimental to the brain and learning. I always assumed it was bad, but maybe not as bad as tobacco. What I’m taking away is it’s just as bad.”
Physician Dr. Virag Shah, also present, described the medical impact he sees in his practice. “By the time they show up, it’s often because they’re having a respiratory issue – a cough or even seizures,” Dr. Shah explained. “Parents need to realize that pretty much everybody is trying it. Even if a child hasn’t used it yet, they are under heavy pressure.”
Teen voice adds perspective
Dr. Shah’s 11‑year‑old daughter, Quinn, shared her takeaway from the class. “My biggest takeaway was the medical impacts when you vape and how it takes over your whole life,” she said. “I learned it affects your lungs and that you’re inhaling plastic, not just chemicals.” Quinn said the session gave her confidence to say no if she ever faces peer pressure.
Looking ahead
Foster hopes the combined format will become a regular offering. “We’re beginning to see youth start younger – reports of fifth‑grade experimentation are emerging,” she warned. “Early prevention and open conversation are essential to stop experimentation from turning into consistent use.” The Poe Center plans to schedule additional joint sessions throughout the coming months, inviting more families to join the effort.
Community resources
For families interested in future classes or other health‑education events, the Poe Center provides a calendar on its website. The organization also produced a 2024 documentary, “Gen V: Teen Vaping in North Carolina,” which explores the broader health impacts of vaping and the tactics used by some companies to attract young users.
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.
