e-cigarettes

The city of Decatur released a letter saying students found using or in possession of vaping devices will go to the Center for Alternatives to Suspension.

Recent research has shown increased findings of harm caused by vaping. The new punishment comes after Decatur City School Administration tried cracking down on the issue by giving in-school suspension for vaping in 2019.

The Alabama Department of Public Health has identified 13 cases of lung disease associated with e-cigarette use.

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — The Alabama Department of Public Health has confirmed the state’s first vaping-related death.

A news release Wednesday said an East Alabama man died of lung disease associated with e-cigarettes. Chronic Disease Epidemiologist Sondra Reese says the department cannot give his age or other details because of privacy laws.

The department says it has identified three other probable cases of vaping-related illness and is investigating nine other possible cases. Reese says the department ruled out vaping as the cause of illness in six other patients.

Students in Alabama and across the country are speaking out against tobacco.

Today marks the 21st annual Kick Butts Day, organized by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. Each year, students along with teachers, health advocates and other activists encourage children to avoid tobacco use, and urge lawmakers to work harder to keep tobacco products away from children.