I decided to explore the topic of JUULs vs. Cigarettes because the increase in JUUL (e-cigarettes) usage is directly affecting my generation. The JUUL is a black rectangular nicotine vape device that uses square shaped pods filled with an equivalent amount of nicotine to that of a pack of cigarettes. Nicotine is both a stimulant and a relaxant used to bring relief with stress and energize someone up when they are tired. In America, currently 40 million Americans smoke, even with the potential risk of lung cancers and other illnesses. The JUULl is easily accessible, with it being sold at over 70% of convenience stores. It’s shape, a USB drive, gives it a flashdrive look making it easy to conceal. Being that 63% of JUUL users are between the ages of 15-24, leaves me to question why it is so easy for teenagers and young adults to become so addicted. Well, first off, the JUUL looks more like a trendy piece of technology than a cigarette or other electronic cigarette devices. Secondly, the JUUL does not give off the same stench that cigarettes do, as the flavors range from mint to mango to even flavors such as creme brulee. Even though it may be easier and tastier, inhaling vape is still inhaling nicotine, which at the end of the day does not have any health benefits. While the decline of the cigarette may be going down, the rate of the increase of the JUUL and the targeted audience is quite alarming.
Click here to view the Google Trends Graph on the next page My Data Page.