TikTok's deadly 'chroming' challenge trend: Growing crisis among Gen Z and Gen Alpha

A disturbing new trend called "chroming" has emerged on TikTok, leading to several tragic deaths among teenagers. This fad involves inhaling toxic fumes from products like aerosol cans and spray deodorants to achieve a temporary high. The trend, which gained traction under the hashtag ‘WhipTok,’ has proven fatal for some, sparking widespread concern and warnings from affected families.
Tragic cases: Esra Haynes and Sarah Mescall
One notable victim is Esra Haynes, a 13-year-old from Melbourne, Australia, who died on March 31, 2023.After participating in the chroming trend at a sleepover, Haynes suffered severe brain damage and a cardiac arrest, eventually succumbing to her injuries after a week in the hospital, reported Dexerto.com. Her parents, Paul and Andrea Haynes, have since been vocal about the dangers of chroming. Paul Haynes expressed his grief on Australian TV, saying, “Esra would’ve never have done this if she’d known the consequences. That it could take your life.” Andrea Haynes added, “The ripple effect is that this is absolutely devastating, we’ve got no child to bring home.”
Similarly, 14-year-old Sarah Mescall from Ireland died in September 2023 after allegedly engaging in the chroming challenge. Mescall collapsed and was later placed in a medically-induced coma before passing away. Irish authorities are investigating the link between her death and the viral trend.
TikTok's response and ongoing danger
In response to these incidents, TikTok has reportedly said that content related to dangerous challenges is prohibited and will be removed if found. The platform emphasized its commitment to safety, saying, “We will continue to prioritize protecting and supporting our community, working with expert partners and providing safety resources to those who need them.”
Despite these efforts, the trend has continued to claim lives. In March 2024, an 11-year-old boy, Tommy-Lee, died after attempting the chroming challenge at a sleepover. His grandmother has called for TikTok to be banned and stricter age restrictions on social media, stating, “We want to get TikTok taken down, and no children to be allowed on any social media under 16 years of age.”
Recent cases highlight risks
Recent reports also include a 12-year-old girl from the UK, Tiegan, who was hospitalized after attempting the chroming challenge, and a 12-year-old boy, Cesar, who went into cardiac arrest after inhaling deodorant. Both cases underscore the severe risks associated with the trend. Cesar’s mother, Nichola King, recounted the terrifying moment she found her son seizing on the floor, and urged other parents to be vigilant.
Ongoing efforts and future concerns
The chroming trend is not the only dangerous fad on TikTok, but its lethal consequences highlight the urgent need for parental awareness and preventive measures. As TikTok continues to combat harmful content, the growing number of tragic incidents serves as a stark reminder of the real dangers posed by viral challenges.
For now, families and authorities remain on high alert, working to prevent further tragedies and protect vulnerable young users from the allure of deadly online trends.