HIGH SCIENCE DOOBIE SOCKS 
While THC vapes are popular for their convenience and fast effects, they’re not risk-free. In 2019, a sudden wave of serious lung illnesses—called the EVALI outbreak—sent thousands of people to hospitals across the U.S. Some even died.
So what caused it? And what can we learn to stay safe?
Let’s explore the health risks of THC vaping and what you need to know to protect yourself.
What Is EVALI?
EVALI stands for E-cigarette or Vaping Associated Lung Injury. It was first reported in mid-2019 when people across the country started getting sick after vaping THC or nicotine.
Symptoms included:
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Coughing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Fatigue
Doctors later discovered that most of these cases were linked to black market THC vape cartridges—especially ones containing a substance called vitamin E acetate.
What Is Vitamin E Acetate and Why Is It Dangerous?
Vitamin E acetate is normally used in skin creams and supplements. But when it’s inhaled, it becomes harmful.
Illicit vape manufacturers used it to thicken THC oil and make it look more powerful or high-quality. But once heated and inhaled, this chemical can coat the lungs and lead to severe damage.
According to the CDC, vitamin E acetate was found in the lungs of most people with EVALI.
How Many People Were Affected?
- Over 2,800 people were hospitalized
- 68 deaths were reported
- Most cases involved young adults, many under age 30
- Most people had vaped unregulated THC products
This outbreak showed how dangerous untested and illegal vape products can be.
Are Vapes Still Dangerous Today?
The risk is much lower now—but only if you use regulated, legal THC vapes from licensed dispensaries.
Here’s what to look for:
- Lab-tested: Look for products tested for harmful ingredients
- Child-proof packaging
- Proper labeling with THC content and batch number
- No “street carts” or unbranded products
If a cartridge is fake, unlabeled, or too cheap to be true, it’s likely unsafe.
Other Potential Health Risks of THC Vaping
Even with legal products, vaping isn’t totally risk-free:
- Lung irritation: Vaping can still cause coughing or discomfort in some people
- Unknown long-term effects: We still don’t know all the health impacts of long-term cannabis vaping
- Overuse: Because vapes hit quickly, it’s easy to inhale too much THC
- Additives or flavorings: Even legal vapes sometimes contain substances that may irritate the lungs
If you have asthma or other breathing problems, consult a doctor before trying any vape product.
How to Vape THC Safely
- Buy only from licensed dispensaries
- Avoid street carts or unverified online sellers
- Check ingredients—no vitamin E acetate, cutting agents, or mystery oils
- Start low, go slow with dosage
- Store your vapes safely away from heat and sunlight
Conclusion: Be Smart, Be Safe
THC vapes can be a safer alternative to smoking—but only if you use the right products. The EVALI outbreak showed what can happen when people trust untested cartridges and black market sellers.
Stick with legal, lab-tested vapes and always read the label. Your lungs will thank you.
