The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on Saturday that it has identified a minimum of 94 likely instances of serious pulmonary disease linked to vaping across 14 states, spanning from June 28 to August 15. Authorities mentioned that the direct connection between these ailments—which have resulted in numerous emergency room visits—and vaping has not been established. It remains uncertain if the usage of these devices directly caused the illnesses or if they aggravated pre-existing health conditions.
Free Confidential Lawsuit Evaluation: If you or a loved one has been injured by a vape, e-cigarette or other electronic smoking device, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit and our lawyers can help.
Update: Study Finds Vaping May Be More Addictive Than Nicotine Gum
New research out of West Virginia University has raised concerns about the growing popularity of vaping, especially among young adults. The study suggests that vaping could be more addictive than nicotine gum—partly because people find it more enjoyable.
The researchers examined how vaping compared to using nicotine gum in 16 individuals aged 18 to 24, all of whom were either current or former smokers. Participants were asked to abstain from nicotine overnight and then either use an e-cigarette or chew nicotine gum the following morning. Afterward, they rated their cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and satisfaction levels.
The findings revealed that those who vaped experienced fewer cravings and withdrawal effects than those who used gum. In addition, vapers reported feeling more satisfied overall, which suggests that the experience of vaping may be more reinforcing—and potentially more habit-forming—than using gum.
According to the study's lead researcher, PhD student Andrea Milstred, today’s vaping devices can deliver nicotine in a way that’s easier for new users to tolerate.
“Modern e-cigarettes are highly capable of leading to nicotine addiction, even in people who have never used tobacco products before—especially teens and young adults,” she explained.
The research, published in the journal Nicotine and Tobacco Research, points out that the type of nicotine used in vapes may contribute to their addictiveness. Unlike the harsher taste of traditional nicotine products, the nicotine salts in many vapes are smoother and less bitter, making them easier to use regularly.
This adds to the ongoing debate about the risks of vaping, particularly for people who were never smokers to begin with. As usage rates continue to climb, experts warn that vaping is becoming a source of nicotine dependence in its own right.
What’s the problem?
As of August 21, the state-by-state case count is:
- Wisconsin (15 confirmed cases, 15 under investigation)
- Illinois (10 confirmed cases, 12 under investigation)
- California (19 cases under investigation)
- New York (11 cases “actively under investigation”)
- Indiana (6 confirmed cases, 3 under investigation)
- New Jersey ( 9 cases under investigation)
Health officials in Connecticut, Florida, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas and Utah also said they were investigating cases of lung disease linked to vaping, according to CNN.
"These latest reports of pulmonary disease in people using vaping products in New York and other states are proof that more study is needed on the long-term health effects of these products," said Dr. Howard Zucker, health commissioner for New York State.
Related Article: E-Cigarette Explosion Lawsuit
100+ People Diagnosed with Lung Diseases Linked To Vaping, CDC Says: TIME Video
Lung Disease From Vapes Tricky Diagnosis, Experts Say
Some patients with suspected pulmonary disease associated with vapes were hospitalized for "multiple weeks," in some cases ending up in the intensive care unit, according to the Minnesota Department of Health. The patients came in with generalized symptoms including shortness of breath, fever, cough, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness and chest pain.
"There is no diagnostic code ... for lung diseases related to vaping,” said Dr. Humberto Choi, a pulmonologist and critical care specialist at the Cleveland Clinic. “So it'll be hard to follow and track."
CDC asked physicians to collect data regarding what patients who use e-cigarettes or vapes are using. The agency said it was working with state health authorities to share information and facilitate testing.
"There are still many unanswered questions, but the health harms emerging from the current epidemic of youth vaping in Minnesota continue to increase," said Dr. Ruth Lynfield, Minnesota Department of Health's medical director and state epidemiologist. "We are encouraging providers and parents to be on the look-out for vaping as a cause for unexplained breathing problems and lung injury and disease."
FAQs
What compensation can be sought in a vaping lung disease lawsuit?
Compensation in a vaping lung disease lawsuit can include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other related costs. In severe cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to penalize the manufacturers for negligence.
How can patients determine if their lung disease is related to vaping?
Patients can determine if their lung disease is related to vaping by consulting with their healthcare provider, reviewing their medical history, and considering whether symptoms began or worsened after starting to use e-cigarettes.
Are there any FDA warnings regarding vaping products?
Yes, the FDA has issued warnings and safety communications regarding vaping products, highlighting the risks of lung disease and other health issues. These warnings are crucial evidence in lawsuits as they establish known risks associated with the products.
See the other product liability lawsuits.
Do I have a Vaping Lawsuit?
The Product Liability Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in vape lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.
Free Case Evaluation: Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by a vape, e-cigarette or other electronic smoking device, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit and we can help.