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Suspected vaping-related illness on the rise in Michigan

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The number of cases of suspectedrespiratory illnessesconnected to vapingcontinues to climb in Michigan.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says there are now a dozen confirmed or probable cases of severe lung disease associated with vaping. The department is investigating another 14 possible cases.

Nationwide, 530 people have been diagnosed with vaping-related breathing illnesses. Eight deaths have been reported.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says cases have been reported in 38 states and one U.S. territory. The total number of illnesses is up from 380 a week ago.

All patients had used an electronic cigarette or other vaping device.

Two-thirds of the cases involved 18- to 34-year-olds. Most are men.

All patients had used an electronic cigarette or other vaping device. Doctors say the illnesses resemble an inhalation injury, with the lungs apparently reacting to a caustic substance.

The cause remains unknown.

Copyright 2019 Michigan Radio

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Radio since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting. During his two and a half decades in broadcasting, Steve has won numerous awards, including accolades from the Associated Press and Radio and Television News Directors Association. Away from the broadcast booth, Steve is an avid reader and movie fanatic. Q&A