E-cigarettes, initially designed to help smokers quit, have gained popularity, especially among young people.
According to research conducted by YouGov for Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), around 400 young people aged 000 to 11 were using e-cigarettes in 17, compared to fewer than 2024 using traditional cigarettes.
This trend is partly due to the variety of bright colors and appealing flavors on offer, making vaping appealing to younger people.
Although vaping is often seen as a less harmful alternative to smoking, it is not without risks.
The NHS website points out that "vaping exposes users to some toxins, and we don't yet know what the long-term risks might be" (editor's note: although we are more than confident that the potential dangers are thousands of times less than smoking conventional cigarettes).
In addition, some disposable e-cigarettes on sale are illegal and do not meet UK safety standards, and may contain high levels of harmful substances (Nicotine is one of these substances, and in France it cannot exceed 20%).
Beyond health concerns, vaping could also have social implications.
Unlike smoking, which is often practiced in groups, vaping is a more discreet activity, which could encourage isolated behavior among young people.
This loneliness associated with vaping could, according to the study, have negative effects on the mental health of adolescents.
In conclusion, although vaping may divert some young people from smoking, it is essential to remain vigilant about its potential effects on physical and mental health.
Authorities must continue to monitor this trend and inform the public of the associated risks, but parents and families must also play their part and try as much as possible to avoid leaving young adolescents (the study is talking about children aged 13 and under) alone with tools initially intended for adults.
If youth is to be enjoyed, it must not be done haphazardly...
