Bibisha Tamang
Sat Dec 28 2024
“I started vaping first when my friends introduced it to me as an alternative to smoking because I wanted to quit smoking, but now it has been my addiction and on top of that I can’t quit smoking too.” These were the words from a 19 years old college student.
In recent years, vaping has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional smoking, especially among younger generation. Marked as a safer option to cigarettes, these vapes or e-cigarettes are battery-powered devices that heat liquid containing nicotine, flavourings, and propylene glycol into vapour for inhalation. They come in sleek designs and offer a variety of flavours, ranging from fruity to dessert-inspired, making them appealing to users.
The misconception that vaping is entirely safe has led many non-smokers to pick up the habit, exposing them to unnecessary health risks. Experts warn that high level of nicotine can harm brain development in teenagers, cause lung injuries and fostering addiction. In this manner, a vape can be considered as a slow poison wrapped in a pretty package.
Upon analysis, it is found that more than 16% of young people have tried vaping. With vaping surpassing tobacco use among adolescents. Around 40% of e-cigarette users continue to smoke tobacco products. Recent studies indicate that using both e-cigarettes and tobacco increases the risk of disease more than smoking tobacco alone.
Another student in Canada, told, “When I first came here, it was a real shock to see teenagers as young as 15 and even those in their early 20's carrying vapes with them, something unheard of in Nepal. Back home, I had no idea about it, but seeing my friends use them here, fully aware of the effects, never tempted or inspired me to try it.”
Many believe that, young people and non-smokers partly use vapes because it’s seen as "cool." The large vapor clouds, fun flavors, and sleek devices make vaping appealing. Peer pressure and social media also play a role, with influencers and friends encouraging others to try it in order to fit in or appear trendy.
The increasing use and advertisement of vape has emerged as a global public health concern that requires immediate attention. The long-term health effects of vaping on young people are still under investigation, but history has shown that it took years to fully grasp the dangers of smoking. To prevent a similar delay, we must prioritize immediate efforts to educate the public and raise awareness about the risks of teenage vaping.
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