A 19-year-old woman from Tempe, Arizona, has died after reportedly taking part in a dangerous TikTok trend known as “dusting” or “chroming,” according to The Independent.
Renna O’Rourke went into cardiac arrest after inhaling fumes from a compressed air product, commonly used to clean keyboards—a practice also referred to as “huffing.”
She was rushed to the hospital and remained in intensive care for nearly a week before being declared brain-dead. Her death was linked to Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome (SSDS), a condition that can occur after inhaling toxic substances.
Easy access, hidden risks
Renna’s mother, Dana O’Rourke, shared with People that the product was bought online by Renna and her boyfriend, with no parental knowledge.
There’s no age verification. It’s odorless and inexpensive—everything that makes it appealing to teens,” Dana said. “It doesn’t even show up in typical drug tests.”
Remembering Renna
Described by her parents as lively, kind, and devoted, Renna was someone who loved to sing and brought joy wherever she went. Following her death, the O’Rourke family has made it their mission to educate others about the life-threatening dangers of inhalant abuse.
“Don’t just take their word for it,” Dana advised other parents. “Check their rooms. Be cautious. It might feel extreme, but it could save your child’s life.”
Support and outreach
A GoFundMe page created to help with hospital expenses, funeral arrangements, counseling, and public education efforts has raised more than $9,000 so far, exceeding its initial $5,000 goal. Renna’s father also plans to use the funds to promote awareness about the risks of chroming.
What is the ‘Dusting’ Trend?
The trend involves inhaling pressurized gas from household items like keyboard cleaners to get a quick high. Popularised on social platforms such as TikTok, it is often filmed and shared in pursuit of online engagement. Despite the seemingly harmless appearance of the products, the inhalation can disrupt heart rhythms and lead to sudden death.
A growing concern
Although inhalant abuse has been an issue for decades, recent incidents have brought renewed focus. In early 2024, an 11-year-old in the UK died after attempting chroming, reportedly after watching related videos online.
CNN reports a decline in inhalant use among 12- to 17-year-olds—from 684,000 in 2015 to 554,000 in 2022—but warns of a potential resurgence. Pediatrician Dr. Betty Choi told CNN that many of these products are readily available in homes and can quickly become addictive. “The effects may seem similar to alcohol, but the health risks are severe,” she noted.
A plea to other parents
The O’Rourkes say they’re determined to prevent another family from facing a similar tragedy. “This shouldn’t happen to anyone else’s child,” Dana said. “By speaking up, we hope to protect others from this heartbreaking loss.”
Top risky trends on social media
From silly stunts to dangerous dares, social media—especially TikTok—has become a breeding ground for viral challenges. While some trends are harmless fun, others pose serious risks to physical and mental health, public safety, and even lives. Here’s a look at 10 viral challenges that have caught global attention, sparked concern, and in some cases, led to tragic consequences.
Blackout Challenge
Encourages self-choking to the point of unconsciousness. This dangerous trend has been linked to multiple deaths.
Dusting / Chroming Challenge
Involves inhaling compressed air or chemicals for a quick high. Can lead to sudden cardiac arrest or brain damage.
Skullbreaker Challenge
A prank that trips an unsuspecting jumper mid-air, often causing serious injuries like concussions or spinal damage.
Swatting
Involves prank-calling emergency services to send a SWAT team to someone’s home. It can result in trauma, injury, or worse.
One Chip Challenge
Participants eat a chip made with Carolina Reaper peppers—the world’s hottest. It’s known to cause severe stomach pain and even hospital visits.
Hot Pepper Challenges
From ghost peppers to habaneros, these stunts can trigger seizures, anaphylactic shock, or stomach ulcers when taken to extremes.
Bird Box Challenge
Inspired by the film, users blindfold themselves and attempt daily tasks, sometimes leading to accidents in public spaces.
Tide POD Challenge
A dangerous fad where teens consumed laundry detergent pods, mistaking them for candy-like snacks.
Silhouette Challenge
While it started as a body-positive trend, it raised privacy concerns when users’ silhouettes were digitally altered to expose revealing content.
Door Knock Challenge
A modern take on “ding-dong ditch,” this prank involves late-night door-banging, often scaring or angering homeowners and attracting police warnings.
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