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A new and alarming trend is gaining traction among teenagers, known as “chroming.” This practice involves inhaling household items such as nail polish or markers to get high, and it poses significant health risks. Although chroming may sound unfamiliar, the practice of sniffing common products for their temporary hallucinatory effects has been around for years, often under different names like “huffing,” “puffing,” and “bagging.”
The Growing Concern
In 2015, over 684,000 Americans aged 12 to 17 were reported using inhalants, according to the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Though the number dropped in 2022 to 554,000, it has been creeping back up, reaching 564,000 in 2023. Experts attribute this resurgence largely to social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where chroming has become a popular topic among youth.
Rachel Kim, a researcher at Cohen Children’s Northwell Health, explains that the accessibility of items involved in chroming contributes to its growing appeal. “Items involved in chroming are very easily accessible,” she said, noting how teens are using social media to share videos about the practice. Kim’s recent study, presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics 2024 National Conference, found that more than 25 million views were garnered by TikTok videos related to chroming.
What Is Chroming?
Chroming is the act of inhaling volatile substances—typically found in everyday products such as permanent markers, air dusters, nail polish, paint thinner, gasoline, and hairspray. The term “chroming” is thought to come from the residue that people get on their faces and hands after inhaling metallic paint. The goal is to experience a high, but the practice is extremely dangerous and can be highly addictive.
Dr. Hannah Hays, chief of toxicology at the Central Ohio Poison Center, warns of the health risks associated with this behavior. “Users can develop drowsiness, dizziness, slurred speech, and can become unsteady on their feet, leading to an increased risk of falls,” she said. But the dangers don’t end there—chroming can also cause abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, and even stop breathing.
A Fatal Trend
In a tragic example, an 11-year-old boy in the U.K. died earlier this year after engaging in chroming during a sleepover as part of a social media challenge. Tommie-Lee Gracie Billington suffered a cardiac arrest and died after inhaling fumes. Experts emphasize that even a single instance of chroming can lead to severe consequences.
Why Are Teens Engaging in Chroming?
While chroming isn’t a new practice, its popularity has been fueled by the normalization of risky behaviors on social media. Kim’s research showed that a staggering 70% of TikTok posts about chroming were memes, making the practice seem like a harmless, even funny activity. This creates a perception among teens that chroming is a safer alternative to traditional drugs, when in reality, it is just as dangerous.
The ease of access to the items used for chroming further contributes to its allure. Unlike many illegal drugs, these substances are commonly available in homes, making them more tempting for teens looking to experiment.
How Can Parents Help?
Experts stress the importance of parental involvement in reducing the risk of chroming. While it may be difficult to completely eliminate the availability of the substances used for chroming, parents can take steps to keep them out of reach, especially for younger children. Dr. Bruce Ruck, managing director of the New Jersey Poison Control Center, recommends monitoring unusual behavior, such as a child suddenly purchasing nail polish without using it or having multiple cans of air duster.
Parents should also stay vigilant about their children’s social media use. “Making sure children are educated and are kept away from harmful influences on social media is crucial,” Kim advised. Hays added that an open and non-judgmental conversation about the dangers of chroming is one of the best ways to protect kids.
Conclusion
With the rise of chroming and its growing presence on social media, it’s more important than ever for parents to stay informed and proactive. By educating their children about the risks and setting clear boundaries, parents can play a vital role in protecting them from this dangerous trend.
