About three-fourths of patients with vaping-related illnesses nationwide reported using products containing THC, according to CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report published Sept. 27.
The investigation into the source of the illnesses is ongoing. However, the CDC report provides the first national data regarding the sex, age and type of vaping products used in the cases reported to CDC.
Of the 514 patients who self-reported data on their vaping habits, 76.9 percent used products containing THC. Thirty-six percent said they used THC products exclusively, while 16 percent used solely nicotine products.
A separate Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report containing information on 86 patients in Wisconsin and Illinois found that most THC products were packaged cartridges obtained through informal sources such as friends, family or illicit dealers. Though more information is needed to know the exact cause of the lung injuries, CDC recommends people refrain from using e-cigarettes or vaping products, specifically those containing THC.
As of September 24, the CDC has reported 805 confirmed and probable cases of vaping-related illnesses in 46 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Among those cases, there have been 12 deaths.