From Ms. Geneva, our Substance Use Prevention Coordinator

Vaping might look cool, but it’s no friend to the heart. Whether it’s from smoking or vaping, nicotine raises your heart rate and blood pressure—definitely not the kind of heart-pumping action you want!

Stats: In 2022, 4.5 million teens were vaping, putting them at risk for heart issues like high blood pressure and heart problems that can show up way too early.

Long-Term Effects: Teens who vape or smoke can develop early signs of heart disease. If they keep at it, they could be dealing with plaque buildup in their arteries down the road. Yikes!

For adults sure, a sip here and there might seem harmless, but too much alcohol for youth can seriously mess with their hearts. We’re talking about heart muscle damage, irregular heartbeats, and high blood pressure—no fun at all!

Stats: 28% of high school students drank alcohol last month, and binge drinking (5 or more drinks in a short time) is common. The result? A higher chance of heart problems, including risky arrhythmias and even sudden cardiac death (Increased rate for athletes).

Marijuana might give you a temporary buzz, but it also raises your heart rate and blood pressure in ways that aren’t so cool or calming—especially for those with an already vulnerable heart.

Stats: 1 in 3 high school seniors are using marijuana regularly, and studies show it’s linked to higher rates of heart problems like arrhythmias, heart attacks, and sudden cardiac arrest. Not exactly the love we want for our hearts!

We all love an energy boost, but too much caffeine can make your heart race in a not-so-fun way. Overdoing it can lead to higher blood pressure and irregular heartbeats.

Stats: Teens often drink more caffeine than they should, especially in energy drinks and sodas. It’s recommended that teens stick to 100 mg of caffeine per day—about one 8-ounce cup of coffee. Anything more could make your heart work over time!

Stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin help with focus, but they can also speed up your heart rate and raise your blood pressure. Taking them without a prescription or in excess is a serious heart health risks 

Stats: Over 10% of high school students misuse prescription stimulants. This can cause dangerous heart events, especially if taken without a doctor’s supervision.

Tips for Families:

• Prevention: Start conversations about healthy choices early, set clear expectations, and keep talking about why substances like nicotine, alcohol, and marijuana aren’t the right path.

• Healthy Habits: Encourage your teen to focus on healthy habits like eating well, staying active, and managing stress. A healthy heart starts with a healthy lifestyle!

• Support: If your teen is already using substances, offer a listening ear, seek out counseling, and get help before heart health problems become a bigger issue.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s show some love for our hearts- by making healthy choices

Have questions or concerns? Ms. Geneva is here to help! Contact her at gsmedley