FACT #1
Inhalant abusers risk an array of other devastating medical consequences. The highly concentrated chemicals in solvents or aerosol sprays can induce irregular and rapid heart rhythms and lead to fatal heart failure within minutes of a session of prolonged sniffing. This syndrome, known as “sudden sniffing death,” can result from a single session of inhalant use by an otherwise healthy young person. (NIDA)
FACT #2
With approximately 10,000 kids under age 18 visiting emergency departments every year due to errors from self-administering Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, it is important for parents and guardians to discuss the safe use and storage of OTC medicines with their tweens. (AAPCC)
FACT #3
Call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222. Fifty-five poison centers around the country have experts waiting to answer your call. These experts can help you decide whether someone can be treated at home, or whether he or she must go to a hospital. (AAPCC)
FACT #4
28 % of American youth have tried cigarettes by 12th grade, and 10.5% of 12th graders are current smokers. Even as early as 8th grade, almost 10% have tried cigarettes, and 2.6% have already become current smokers. (MTF, 2016)