Selena Gomez’s vaping warnings generate debate about side effects
The celebrity said vaping had changed her voice and described how hard it was to quit. Online responses ranged from support for her message to skepticism about vaping’s risks and the challenges of quitting.
The celebrity said vaping had changed her voice and described how hard it was to quit. Online responses ranged from support for her message to skepticism about vaping’s risks and the challenges of quitting.
The practical takeaway
Use the attention around Gomez’s story to make vaping information and local quitting support easier to find. Address questions about possible side effects and nicotine dependence without overstating what is known about her voice.
What's happening
On October 18, actress and singer Selena Gomez posted an Instagram story saying that vaping nicotine had changed her voice and that she recently quit. In the video, she said, “Nicotine is so hard to quit, and I think I just wanted to say, if you’re going through it, or if you’re even trying to vape, it’s just not worth it.”
Social media users across platforms discussed Gomez’s message, with many debating whether vaping can change a person’s voice. Some commenters speculated without evidence that Gomez’s lupus diagnosis, previous kidney transplant, medication, or alleged use of illicit substances—not vaping—explained her hoarseness.
CBS News covered Gomez’s story alongside new research reporting higher vaping rates among teen girls than teen boys. The coverage was followed by further online discussion among adults and teens about whether vaping can affect the voice. Some commenters also asked about other potential side effects and whether nicotine is addictive.
Questions people are asking
- Can vaping change your voice?
- What are other potential side effects of vaping?
- Is nicotine addictive?
What you can do
Public-facing messaging: Address both vaping prevention and quitting. Review existing materials to ensure they explain nicotine dependence and answer common questions about vaping’s possible side effects, including whether it can affect the voice. Highlight local resources for people who want to quit and keep this information easily accessible.
Clinical coordination: Keep health care providers and other frontline partners informed as evidence about vaping evolves. Share current research on vaping trends, including popular brands and health risks, so providers can answer questions, discuss potential side effects, and provide cessation support.
Community partners and trusted messengers: Engage messengers who can speak authentically to teens and young adults about vaping. Consider working with youth ambassadors, local content creators with a predominantly teenage audience, or organizations that provide teen-based services. These messengers may be more effective at sharing key information with the populations most likely to currently vape or begin vaping.
Social media: Tailor vaping information and quitting resources to teens and their families. Assess whether materials speak to teens in clear, relatable, nonjudgmental language and acknowledge the social factors that can make vaping appealing. Include guidance for parents and caregivers supporting teens who want to quit.
Learn more about the Infodemiology Initiative’s monitoring methods.