Week 2 Assignment Topic Selection And Outline ✓ Solved

This week, you will submit a topic and outline for an upcoming argumentative paper. Address the following:

1. Choose one of the following topics:

   • Should hospital emergency departments be used to treat mental health patients?
   • Should the title "Doctor" be allowed used in clinical situations by nurses who have earned doctoral degrees?
   • Whether vaping is a safe alternative to smoking
   • Whether ketogenic diets pose a health risk
   • Whether coffee consumption is a health benefit or a health risk
   • Whether positive psychology therapy is effective?
   • The value of DNA therapies in treating cancer
   • Should technologies like CRISPR/Cas9 be used to eliminate genetic diseases (or create designer babies)?

2. In a brief thesis paragraph, state the claim you will be making in your paper.
3. Provide an outline for your paper including at least 3 main points that you will use to support your claim. The claim you are making in (2) is your conclusion. Write the supporting points in the form of premises for that conclusion.

Paper For Above Instructions

Thesis Statement: The increasing popularity of vaping is often perceived as a safer alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes; however, evidence suggests that vaping presents its own health risks that warrant concern, particularly among youth.

Outline

I. Introduction

A. Background on smoking and vaping

B. Thesis statement: Vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking due to health risks, addictive properties, and lack of regulatory oversight.

II. Health Risks of Vaping

A. Description of harmful substances found in vape products

B. Studies linking vaping to respiratory issues and other health problems

C. Comparisons to traditional cigarettes and health outcomes

III. Addictive Properties of Vaping

A. Overview of nicotine levels in e-cigarettes

B. Discussion of addiction potential among adolescents

C. Long-term implications of nicotine addiction

IV. Lack of Regulation

A. Current state of vaping legislation

B. Comparison of regulations for traditional tobacco products versus vaping

C. Calls for stricter regulations to protect public health

V. Conclusion

A. Recap of thesis and main supporting points

B. Call to action for increased awareness and regulation of vaping products

Vaping has become increasingly popular, especially among young adults and adolescents, as an alternative to traditional smoking. However, a plethora of studies suggest that vaping is associated with various health risks that cannot be ignored. The misconception that vaping is a 'safer' choice has become prevalent, fueled by marketing tactics that emphasize the appeal of flavored e-liquids and social acceptance. Yet, as research continues to unveil the potential dangers of vaping, it is crucial to examine its implications thoroughly.

The health risks associated with vaping stem from the various chemicals and substances found in vape products. While many believe that e-cigarettes pose fewer dangers than traditional cigarettes, recent studies indicate otherwise. For instance, the American Lung Association has reported that e-cigarettes contain harmful substances, including heavy metals like lead, ultrafine particles, and volatile organic compounds (American Lung Association, 2020). Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has made connections between vaping and respiratory ailments, with cases of EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury) rapidly emerging as a significant health threat (CDC, 2019). The long-term health effects of these substances remain largely unknown, yet the potential for serious health consequences, including lung disease and cardiovascular issues, raises valid concerns among healthcare professionals (Kumar et al., 2022).

Moreover, the addictive properties of vaping cannot be overlooked. Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance. Some vape products deliver nicotine levels significantly higher than traditional cigarettes (Gravely et al., 2020), increasing the potential for addiction. This is particularly concerning among adolescents, as nicotine exposure during critical developmental periods can lead to lasting changes in brain structure and function, increasing susceptibility to addiction to other substances as well (McGill, 2021). It is essential to recognize that while individuals may turn to vaping to quit smoking, many end up using both products, complicating the narrative of harm reduction (Sinha et al., 2020).

Furthermore, the lack of comprehensive regulatory oversight surrounding vaping products presents another significant risk. Unlike traditional tobacco products, which are strictly regulated by federal laws, vaping products have faced a much less rigorous approval process (U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2021). As a result, harmful substances may remain unregulated, resulting in variable and often dangerous nicotine levels in e-liquids. The recent surge in reports of vaping-associated illnesses highlights the immediate need for tighter regulations to ensure consumer safety (Berg et al., 2020). Advocacy for enhanced legislation can help safeguard public health, deterring youth from adopting vaping as a pastime.

In conclusion, while vaping is often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, research indicates otherwise. It presents significant health risks, particularly among young users, who are particularly vulnerable to addiction and its harmful repercussions. The combination of health risks, addictive potential, and regulatory inadequacies highlight an urgent need to address the vaping phenomenon more critically. By increasing public awareness and advocating for stringent regulations, we can work toward protecting youth and ensuring a healthier future.

References

• American Lung Association. (2020). E-Cigarettes: An Overview. Retrieved from https://www.lung.org
• Berg, C. J., et al. (2020). Vaping and cardiovascular health: current research and future directions. American Journal of Hypertension, 33(6), 561-567.
• CDC. (2019). Outbreak of lung injury associated with e-cigarette use, or vaping. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov
• Gravely, S., et al. (2020). The role of e-cigarettes in harm reduction: a critical approach. Nicotine & Tobacco Research, 22(5), 690-697.
• Kumar, A., et al. (2022). The impact of e-cigarettes on respiratory health. Journal of Respiratory Medicine, 203, 105512.
• McGill, M. (2021). Adolescent nicotine exposure and its implications for brain development. Pediatric Research, 90(2), 321-329.
• Sinha, A., et al. (2020). Dual use of conventional cigarettes and e-cigarettes among US adults. Tobacco Control, 29(6), 673-678.
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Regulation of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov