The City and County of Denver is suing e-cigarette and vape pen manufacturers over vaping health risks.

Denver Sues E-Cigarette Makers Over Vaping Health Risks

Denver’s lawsuit against vape manufacturers claims that the companies have behaved wrongfully and deceptively, causing a public health crisis. According to Denver City Attorney Kristin M. Bronson, young people who have used these products may be at risk of developing dangerous health problems. Additionally, young people who use vape pens and e-cigarettes may be especially susceptible to COVID-19.

In a statement, Bronson said that during the age of COVID-19, “pulmonary health has never been more important,” according to Colorado Politics. “Sadly, scientific studies indicate the disease could pose a greater risk to young people who have been using the defendants’ harmful products. We are more focused than ever on fulsome abatement strategies combating the youth vaping epidemic. The defendants helped cause it, so they can help us pay for it.”

Additionally, those who support the lawsuit claim that the popularity of Juul pods and other vape devices may have led to the increase in underage nicotine addiction. In 2013, 11 percent of Denver high school students admitted to trying e-cigarettes. In 2017, the figure increased to 40 percent.

Although the company denies it, Juul has been criticized by many anti-smoking advocates for allegedly tailoring its marketing campaigns to target teens and underage smokers. In an attempt to combat the growing number of underage smokers, the U.S. recently raised the legal age to purchase nicotine to 21 and banned fruity vape flavors that might appeal to underage users.

The Denver lawsuit is seeking damages from vape companies including Juul, Altria, Eonsmoke, and Nu Mark, as well as additional funding for nicotine prevention education and addiction treatment.

Potential Vaping Health Risks

In addition to the possibility that people who smoke or use e-cigarettes may be at higher risk of experiencing respiratory complications due to COVID-19, there are several other vaping health risks that smokers and vapers may not be aware of. As vaping is easier on the throat and lungs, it may be easier for inexperienced users to inhale more nicotine over a short period of time than they realize, leading to nicotine overdose. Symptoms of a nicotine overdose, according to WebMD, include rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, headache, heavy breathing, or dizziness. If nicotine poisoning progresses, it may slow down the heart rate and breathing, and result in lethargy or seizures. At least 35 cases of seizures related to the use of e-cigarettes have been reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Other vaping health risks include lung diseases, such as vape-related lung illness or lung cancer. Vape-related lung illnesses sickened thousands of Americans in 2019 and 2020, killing dozens. Symptoms of this condition may include shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea or vomiting, and a cough. The condition is believed to be caused by the inhalation of vitamin E acetate, an additive used to thicken nicotine juice vape cartridges.

If you or your child has been injured due to use of e-cigarettes or vape pens, you may be eligible to file a claim against the manufacturer of these devices. School administrators or teachers who have witnessed the negative impacts of vaping health risks may also qualify to join an investigation or lawsuit. Hiring a qualified attorney to review your case may help to determine whether you qualify to pursue litigation. Victims may be able to recover compensation for injuries, pain and suffering, and medical expenses.

Join a Free JUUL Use in Schools Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

If you are a school administrator who has seen the negative impact of e-cigarettes on campus and you would like to hold e-cigarette manufacturers accountable for their marketing of their products to youth, submit your information now for a free case evaluation.

If you qualify, an experienced e-cigarette attorney who has worked with other school districts will contact you to discuss your options.

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This article is not legal advice. It is presented 
for informational purposes only.