Nicotine is a chemical substance found in tobacco plants and causes many health related problems. Nicotine affects the brain and body binding to receptors which leads to the development of addiction, increased heart rate, and increased blood pressure. Nicotine is just one of the thousands of chemicals found in all tobacco or vape products. Other chemical additives are known to cause cancer and other health problems.
Vapes or other electronic devices are an alternative method for nicotine use. These products use liquid nicotine extracted from tobacco that is heated to an aerosol type vapor which is inhaled. Though thought of as harmless as water vapor, these are chemicals suspended in gas and are harmful to the lungs and other parts of the body.
The Youth Access to Tobacco Prevention Act of 2006, (Section 16-17-500, as amended, Code of Laws of SC, 1976), states that youth under the age of 18 years must not purchase, attempt to purchase, possess, or attempt to possess a tobacco product or an alternative nicotine product or present or offer proof of age that is false or fraudulent for the purpose of purchasing or possessing a tobacco product or an alternative nicotine product. Section 59-1-380 was added so as to require local school districts to adopt, implement, and enforce a written policy prohibiting the use of tobacco and alternative nicotine products on school campuses and at school events. The federal government has recently increased the age to 21 years old.
The SC TEP is offered as an alternative to penalties for students who face suspension for violation of a school tobacco-use policy, and young people who break one of the state’s laws regarding underage tobacco use. The program addresses and educates youth about tobacco and other nicotine products, tobacco and nicotine use, effects of tobacco and nicotine use, addiction, healthy alternatives, and resources to quit.
If you have any students that you would like to refer to this program, they may contact ALPHA Behavioral Health Center at the nearest location. The fee for the program is $25, the class will last up to four hours and scheduling will be done on a needs basis.
