Selena Gomez revealed that her voice was altered by vaping in a recent video shared on Sunday. The American singer, actress, and Rare Beauty makeup line founder admitted to vaping nicotine extensively, emphasizing the challenges of quitting and discouraging others from the habit. Gomez, 34, humorously acknowledged the impact on her voice, suggesting that those who find it unpleasant are justified in not listening.
Although she did not specify the duration of her vaping habit, Gomez expressed her determination to stay vape-free and encouraged others facing similar struggles to persevere. This revelation adds to Gomez’s history of health battles, including her lupus diagnosis in 2015, which she has suggested may have affected her vocal cords. Additionally, she underwent a kidney transplant in 2017 and discussed her bipolar disorder diagnosis in her 2022 documentary, “Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me.”
While Gomez’s disclosure raises awareness about the risks of vaping, health experts stress that vaping poses broader health hazards beyond nicotine addiction. Dr. Dilini Vethanayagam, a University of Alberta medicine professor, highlighted the potential harm of vaping chemicals on the respiratory system, including the vocal cords. Health Canada has identified over 1,500 unique chemicals in vaping products, with ongoing studies on the long-term health implications, such as lung damage.
Public figures like Gomez shedding light on vaping dangers are crucial, according to Vethanayagam, underscoring the need for stricter regulations on vaping sales and usage. Despite Canada’s commitment to restricting vaping flavors five years ago, the timeline for implementation remains uncertain amidst increasing youth consumption. Efforts are underway to advocate for legislative measures to limit young individuals’ access to tobacco products, including vapes, reinforcing the urgency of addressing the vaping epidemic.
The candor of individuals like Gomez serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing respiratory health and combatting the allure of vaping among young populations.