Lung Cancer Awareness: Dr. Barton discusses vaping

Parkview's Dr. Barton talked with FOX 55's David Tilmans about the damage vaping can do to people's lungs.

Many people believe vaping is the safer alternative to smoking. Dr. Barton said he hears that a lot from his patients.

"What we've learned," Dr. Barton explained, "is vaping is less harmful than traditional cigarette smoking, but it also carries its own risks and can cause significant lung damage."

He said prior to laws being passed requiring people to be 21 to vape, he and other doctors were seeing many 18-year-olds come in with severe lung injuries from overuse of vape and different unregulated vaping liquids.

Since 2019, regulation and control of vaping has gotten better, he said.

For those looking to quit vaping and smoking, Dr. Barton said there are medications, counseling and other treatments available.

In closing, Dr. Barton said he strongly encourages people to quit smoking and vaping as soon as they can.