AACC faculty held a panel discussion on September 25 about the developing problem of vaping and e-cigarettes among youth.

Shad Ewart, chair of the business management department, led the panel, focused on health issues associated with vaping.

“It was [very] informative,” Michael Gimon, a third-year fitness, health and exercise student said.

Ewart said “ignorance, indifference and denial among students” is what inspired him to organize this event.

He said e-cigarettes burn nicotine and other chemicals, which causes pulmonary problems and even death.

Keisha Brooks, supervisor of prevention education and family wellness at Anne Arundel Medical Center, said people need to educate themselves about vaping.

“There is nothing stronger than making an informed decision,” Brooks said.

Beth Mays, a registered nurse, said students can come to the Health and Wellness Center if they want to quit smoking.

“There is no judgement here,” Mays said. “We’re here to help you.”

The Health and Wellness Center, located in SUN 120, is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.