Health
Young vaper who required double lung transplant shares warnings as e-cigarette sales rise
MINNEAPOLIS – E-cigarette sales are climbing — and it’s primarily young people who are getting hooked.
Those between the ages of 18 and 24 vape the most, but 9% of youth between 11 and 15 years old say they’re regular vapors, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
One of them, 22-year-old Jackson Allard of North Dakota, almost lost his life due to his vaping habit — and now he’s warning others of the dangers.
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Besides leading to addiction, vaping can cause permanent lung damage, according to the CDC.
Last October, Allard developed parainfluenza, which led to pneumonia and then acute respiratory distress syndrome. His lungs were full of fluid.
Jackson Allard, pictured, was in the hospital for three months before he was healthy enough to qualify as a transplant recipient. Now he meets weekly with other lung transplant recipients for rehab. “I’m the youngest person by far, so it’s a little weird,” Allard said. (Doreen Hurlburt )
“I was really sick, barely able to sleep, puking constantly,” Allard told Fox News.
The young man was on ECMO, a form of life support, for 70 days.
“I had a 1% chance to live,” Allard said.
His lungs were damaged so badly that in Jan. 2024, he received a double lung transplant — a rare procedure for someone his age.
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“The first thing that went through my head was, ‘Can I live a normal life after this?’” Allard said.
Allard and his family live in Fargo, North Dakota, but they’re renting an apartment in Minneapolis while he recovers from his transplant.
Twice a week, he attends rehabilitation and gets weekly bloodwork. He also gets his PICC line, a tube connected to his veins for long-term medication, cleaned each week. Allard takes 30 pills a day and his family is responsible for giving him his IV medication.
“I had a 1% chance to live.”
Based on his doctors’ input, Allard and his grandmother, Doreen Hurlburt, believe vaping is to blame for his lung failure.
“When I first started vaping, I was probably 14. I was pretty much non-stop doing it,” Allard said. He later started using a weed vape as well.
“I told my friend who smokes weed, I was like, ‘Be careful with that,’” Allard said, suggesting that people use marijuana gummies instead of vapes.
“It’s just scary to know that we can make a misstep and cause something bad to happen,” said Doreen Hurlburt, Jackson’s grandmother, pictured here. (Mills Hayes/Fox News)
His grandmother, Doreen Hurlburt, said she complained daily about Jackson’s vaping habits.
“Multiple doctors said, ‘If you smoke cigarettes for 50 years, we’ll see you with lung cancer, and if you vape for five years, we’ll see you with permanent lung damage,’” Hurlburt told Fox News.
Allard can’t drink alcohol or smoke, and his weakened immune system means he has to avoid big crowds.
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Dr. Brooke Moore, a pediatric pulmonologist at Children’s Minnesota, did not treat Allard but often sees patients with vaping-related lung injuries.
“We’ve seen kids who have been vaping for short periods of time, and not necessarily with heavy use, come in with pretty significant lung injury from that,” Moore told Fox News.
Most of Allard’s friends just turned 21 and all go out to the bars — but after his double lung transplant, he’s not allowed to drink or be in crowded places. “It’s the social aspect that I’m kind of worried about,” he told Fox News. (Mills Hayes/Fox News)
The majority of the patients Moore sees with vaping-related issues are between 16 and 19 years old.
Some patients have lung injury and others have milder respiratory symptoms.
“We’ve done a very good job of educating youth about not starting to smoke traditional tobacco-based cigarettes,” Moore said.
“With vaping products, we don’t have as much long-term data, but in the short term, the risk seems to be as high as cigarettes — and I would argue in some cases worse.”
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Moore said her patients typically vape THC and nicotine.
“It doesn’t seem to be that vaping just nicotine or just THC is less of a risk for lung disease than one or the other,” she said.
Most vaping patients have some underlying mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression or a combination of those, the doctor noted.
Dr. Brook Moore, pictured here, said patients will come in with a cough and shortness of breath due to vaping. “They’ve created flavors and advertising that mimics a lot of the things that kids, teenagers and young adults like to use,” she said about the manufacturers. (Mills Hayes/Fox News)
“They’re using their vape products to self-medicate,” Moore said. “It shows there is a much bigger issue at play than just people vaping to vape.”
In 2019, there was an outbreak of e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury, or EVALI. Those cases were linked to vitamin E acetate in vaping products.
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As of Feb. 2020, more than 2,800 patients had been admitted to various hospitals in the U.S. due to EVALI, with 68 deaths reported.
But in 2020, the CDC stopped tracking EVALI cases.
That’s when Johns Hopkins Children’s Center Dr. Christy Sadreameli started to pay more attention.
Many of the vape products commonly sold are “kind of on the market illegally,” a doctor warned. (iStock)
“If you were to ask me how many cases of EVALI happen every year in the U.S., we don’t know that anymore,” Sadreameli told Fox News Digital.
“It’s definitely still out there. And I’m still concerned about it.”
Many of the vape products commonly sold are “kind of on the market illegally,” Sadreameli added.
“They’re on the market without approval and without undergoing review.”
“They haven’t gone through the FDA review or approval process, and it’s hard to enforce something like that. These things were already being sold,” she continued.
“They’re kind of on the market without approval and without undergoing review. So that’s kind of messed up.”
Symptoms of vaping-related lung injury include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever or gastrointestinal symptoms, according to WebMD.
If people who often vape are experiencing a combination of those symptoms, they should see a doctor as soon as possible, experts advise.
Patients who want to quit can work with their doctor to make a plan.
There are also cessation support groups and programs available.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
Heart disease has been the world’s No. 1 killer for over a century, and experts predict that it will become even more prevalent in the coming decades.
A report this month from the American Heart Association (AHA) predicts that at least six in 10 U.S. adults could experience cardiovascular disease within the next 30 years.
The rate of hypertension (high blood pressure) — which is one of the key risk factors for heart disease — is expected to increase from 51.2% in 2020 to 61.0% in 2050.
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Diabetes, another major risk factor, is also expected to rise (16.3% to 26.8%), along with obesity (43.1% to 60.6%), according to the study, which was published in the AHA journal Circulation.
As a result, total cardiovascular disease is predicted to rise from 11.3% to 15.0% between 2020 and 2050.
Heart disease has been the world’s No. 1 killer for over a century, and experts predict that it will become even more prevalent in the coming decades. (iStock)
“The landscape of cardiovascular disease in the U.S. is seeing the arrival of a near-perfect storm,” Dr. Dhruv S. Kazi, vice chair of the advisory writing group and a Boston cardiologist, said in a press release.
ANGER CAN INCREASE HEART ATTACK RISK, STUDY FINDS
“The last decade has seen a surge of cardiovascular risk factors, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, each of which raises the risks of developing heart disease and stroke,” he continued.
“It is not surprising that an enormous increase in cardiovascular risk factors and diseases will produce a substantial economic burden.”
As a result of the risk factors identified in the study, total cardiovascular disease is predicted to rise from 11.3% to 15.0% between 2020 and 2050. (iStock)
On a positive note, the researchers determined that hypercholesterolemia (high levels of LDL, or “bad cholesterol”), will decline (45.8% to 24.0%).
They also predicted that diet, exercise and smoking habits will improve, although sleep quality is expected to worsen.
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The researchers analyzed data from the 2015 to March 2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and the 2015 to 2019 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey.
“We projected through 2050, overall and by age and race and ethnicity, accounting for changes in disease prevalence and demographics,” they wrote.
“[The] most adverse trends are projected to be worse among people identifying as American Indian/Alaska Native or multiracial, Black or Hispanic.”
Life’s Essential 8 consists of the following eight lifestyle behaviors for optimal heart health, according to the American Heart Association. (iStock/American Heart Association)
The study looked for trends in cardiovascular risk factors based on adverse levels of Life’s Essential 8 and clinical cardiovascular disease and stroke.
WANT TO LIVE LONGER? FOLLOW 8 HEART-HEALTHY HABITS, SAYS THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
Life’s Essential 8 consists of the following eight lifestyle behaviors for optimal heart health, according to the AHA:
- Following a healthy sleep schedule
- Not smoking
- Getting regular physical activity
- Adhering to a healthy diet
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Maintaining healthy blood glucose levels
- Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels
- Maintaining healthy blood pressure
Overall, the report predicts that clinical cardiovascular disease (affecting the heart or blood vessels) will affect 45 million adults by 2050, and clinical cardiovascular disease (including hypertension) will affect more than 184 million adults.
Overall, the report predicts that clinical cardiovascular disease (affecting the heart or blood vessels) will affect 45 million adults by 2050, and clinical cardiovascular disease (including hypertension) will affect more than 184 million adults. (iStock)
“The prevalence of many cardiovascular risk factors and most established diseases will increase over the next 30 years,” the researchers stated.
Renato Apolito, M.D., the medical director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center, was not involved in the AHA study but shared his insights on the findings.
“We are all under a lot of pressure and stress to work more to make ends meet.”
One of the key factors is the projected increase in obesity in the coming decades, Apolito said in an interview with Fox News Digital.
“Obesity is very commonly associated as a driver of hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea and hypertriglyceridemia,” he said.
Some of the greater causes of obesity are lack of exercise and a heavy reliance on processed and fast food, he noted.
Some of the greater causes of obesity are lack of exercise and a heavy reliance on processed and fast food, a cardiologist said. (iStock)
“I suspect that as our standard of living goes up, our reliance on processed and pre-prepared food — in addition to lack of exercise and lack of sleep from our hectic work lives — will drive up obesity as the common denominator leading to all the other risk factors mentioned,” Apolito predicted.
“All of those factors put together would lead to an increase in coronary artery disease, heart failure and stroke.”
Reducing the risk
“Clinical and public health interventions are needed to effectively manage, stem and even reverse these adverse trends,” the researchers advised.
Apolito agreed that change is needed.
“We are all under a lot of pressure and stress to work more to make ends meet,” he said.
“This typically leads to the bad lifestyle habits mentioned above.”
The doctor recommends starting small, setting aside just 10 to 20 minutes per day to do some form of exercise and to make conscious decisions to avoid processed and fast foods.
A cardiologist recommends starting small, setting aside just 10 to 20 minutes per day to do some form of exercise and to make conscious decisions to avoid processed and fast foods. (iStock)
“You would maintain a healthier weight, which would mitigate your risk of hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea, dyslipidemia and, ultimately, cardiovascular disease,” he said.
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Apolito also pointed out that the study is speculative, using predictive models on data from the past and present to predict the future — “which is never easy to do.”
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health.
“Hopefully, with increased public education, we can turn the tide and improve overall health in the coming decades by making healthy choices in lifestyle,” he added.
Health
Mushroom-infused 'microdosing' chocolate bars are sending people to the hospital, prompting investigation: FDA
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers about a mushroom-infused chocolate bar that has reportedly sent some people to the hospital.
The FDA released an advisory message about Diamond Shruumz “microdosing” chocolate bars on June 7. The chocolate bars contain a “proprietary nootropics blend” that is said to give a “relaxed euphoric experience without psilocybin,” according to its website.
“The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with America’s Poison Centers and state and local partners, are investigating a series of illnesses associated with eating Diamond Shruumz-brand Microdosing Chocolate Bars,” the FDA’s website reads.
“Do not eat, sell, or serve Diamond Shruumz-Brand Microdosing Chocolate Bars,” the site warns. “FDA’s investigation is ongoing.”
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The FDA is warning consumers against Diamond Shruumz chocolate bars. (FDA | iStock)
“Microdosing” is a practice where one takes a very small amount of psychedelic drugs with the intent of increasing productivity, inspiring creativity and boosting mood. According to Diamond Shruumz’s website, the brand said its products help achieve “a subtle, sumptuous experience and a more creative state of mind.”
“We’re talkin’ confections with a kick,” the brand said. “So if you like mushroom chocolate bars and want to mingle with some microdosing, check us out. We just might change how you see the world.”
But government officials warn that the products have caused seizures in some consumers and vomiting in others.
“People who became ill after eating Diamond Shruumz-brand Microdosing Chocolate Bars reported a variety of severe symptoms including seizures, central nervous system depression (loss of consciousness, confusion, sleepiness), agitation, abnormal heart rates, hyper/hypotension, nausea, and vomiting,” the FDA reported.
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Six people reportedly experienced such severe reactions that they sought medical care.
At least eight people have suffered a variety of medical symptoms from the chocolates, including nausea. (iStock)
“All eight people have reported seeking medical care; six have been hospitalized,” the FDA’s press release said. “No deaths have been reported.”
Diamond Shruumz says on its website that its products are not necessarily psychedelic. Although the chocolate is marketed as promising a psilocybin-like experience, there is no psilocybin in it.
“There is no presence of psilocybin, amanita or any scheduled drugs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience,” the website claims. “Rest assured, our treats are not only free from psychedelic substances but our carefully crafted ingredients still offer an experience.”
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“This allows you to indulge in a uniquely crafted blend designed for your pleasure and peace of mind.”
Officials warn consumers to keep the products out of the reach of minors, as kids and teens may be tempted to eat the chocolate bars.
The chocolate bars are marketed as products that boost mood and creativity. (iStock)
“This product may appeal to children and teenagers as it is marketed as a candy,” the FDA advises. “Parents and caregivers should consider discussing the information in this advisory with their children and take extra care to avoid this product being consumed by younger people.”
The FDA and CDC are actively investigating the products.
Fox News Digital reached out to Diamond Shruumz for comment, but did not hear back.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
Health
CDC warns of ‘dual mutant’ flu strain that could evade antiviral drugs: ‘Need to closely monitor’
A new “dual mutant” strain of H1N1 influenza could pose a threat in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Details about the two strains, I223V and S247N, were published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, which is published by the CDC.
At least two cases of the flu mutations have been confirmed in humans in the U.S., the agency announced on Wednesday.
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The researchers identified a total of 101 samples of the “dual mutant” virus.
The concern is that these strains of flu have shown to be resistant to the antiviral medications that are typically used to treat the virus — notably Tamiflu (oseltamivir), the common flu medication from Switzerland-based Roche.
A new “dual mutant” strain of H1N1 influenza could pose a threat in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (iStock)
“The dual mutants that we tested retained susceptibility to other approved influenza antiviral drugs, including baloxavir,” the researchers wrote in the study findings.
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“Our study highlights the need to closely monitor the evolution of dual mutants, because additional changes may further affect susceptibility to antiviral drugs or provide a competitive advantage over circulating wild-type viruses.”
The strains have been detected in 15 countries across five continents, but are mostly prevalent in Europe, the study found.
“The dual mutants that we tested retained susceptibility to other approved influenza antiviral drugs, including baloxavir,” the researchers wrote. (iStock)
The researchers determined that the mutations have been circulating globally since May 2023.
I223V and S247N were first tested by Hong Kong scientists, who published their findings in The Lancet Microbe in March 2024.
Those researchers also found that the mutant strains lessened the effectiveness of Tamiflu.
Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, said it is “highly unusual” to see an influenza A strain (H1N1, which is a distant cousin of the Spanish flu, he noted) spreading throughout southern U.S. states at this time of year.
People who contract the flu can take antiviral medications to ease symptoms, the CDC stated, which is most important for high-risk patients. (iStock)
“Flu season is usually over by March,” Siegel told Fox News Digital. “Flu doesn’t spread as easily in hot, humid weather.”
He added, “This mutation worries me because the use of Tamiflu — especially in high-risk groups and the elderly — is really helpful at decreasing severity, and it looks like the reaction to it is less.”
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The doctor said he would still recommend using the drug, however, because it has some impact — “or consider other anti-flu drugs.”
Siegel also advised a vaccine booster for the elderly or those in high-risk groups.
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older receives an annual vaccine during heightened flu spread. (iStock)
So far this season, the CDC estimates that there have been at least 35 million illnesses, 390,000 hospitalizations and 24,000 deaths from the flu, as published on the agency’s website.
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older receives an annual vaccine during heightened flu spread.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health
People who contract the flu can take antiviral medications to ease symptoms, the CDC stated, which is most important for high-risk patients.
Fox News Digital reached out to Roche and to the CDC for additional comment.
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