News and Events
DeSoto SWAT Chapter Advocates Against Vaping on “Not-a-Lab Rat Day”
October 16, 2024
On October 16,2024, the DeSoto Chapter of Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) joined schools and communities across the nation to observe “Not-a-Lab Rat Day,” a youth-led campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of vaping and e-cigarette use.
Gathering at Memorial and Arcadia Christian Academy, students from the SWAT Chapter dressed as mad scientists, made announcements at their schools and passed out stickers with the message to call out tobacco industry marketing tactics against our youth. The day aimed to empower students to make informed decisions about their health and reject harmful products marketed toward young people.
Vaping has emerged as a significant health crisis, especially among teenagers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report an alarming rise in nicotine addiction and health complications linked to e-cigarettes. DeSoto SWAT emphasized that despite being marketed as safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes, vaping products often contain harmful chemicals that can lead to lung injury, addiction, and other health risks.
The Role of DeSoto SWAT
The DeSoto SWAT chapter, part of a statewide initiative to curb tobacco use among young people, has been active in promoting awareness throughout the county. In addition to Not-a-Lab Rat Day, the group conducts community outreach efforts to prevent students from falling prey to the deceptive practices of tobacco and e-cigarette companies.
DeSoto SWAT’s Not-a-Lab Rat Day serves as a powerful reminder that youth voices are essential in the fight against vaping—and they refuse to be the next generation trapped in addiction.
If you would like more information or have a child that would like to join SWAT, please contact Lindsey Sager at lsager@quitdoc.com.
