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Arizona Teen’s Death Spurs Calls to Curb Viral ‘Dusting’ Trend

Her parents are urging lawmakers to restrict sale of odorless inhalants after her organs saved six lives

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Dusting challenge claims life of US teen | Image: Renna O’Rourke

Overview

  • Renna O’Rourke, 19, died on June 1 in Tempe, Arizona, from sudden sniffing death syndrome after inhaling aerosol keyboard cleaner in a TikTok “dusting” challenge.
  • The dangerous trend involves breathing odorless, easily obtained cleaning sprays to achieve a brief high and social media attention, with chemicals replacing oxygen in the body.
  • Dr. Randy Weisman and intensive-care staff at HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center warn that even a single inhalation can trigger fatal cardiac arrest, and several other teenagers have also died.
  • Aaron and Dana O’Rourke are now campaigning for public education programs and legislative limits on sales of inhalant products to minors.
  • Following her passing, O’Rourke’s donated organs have saved at least six lives, underscoring the impact of her family’s advocacy efforts.