Warning: The age group most likely to start using e-cigarettes.

The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that teenagers aged 13-15 are at the highest risk of starting to use e-cigarettes. Despite manufacturers advertising "zero nicotine," experts assert that both new-generation and traditional cigarettes seriously affect the physical and mental health of adolescents.

Population officials in Binh Thuy ward are raising awareness among students about the harmful effects of electronic devices. (Illustrative image)

"Poisonous traps" disguised as tech accessories.

The new generation of tobacco products targets young people by launching eye-catching products cleverly disguised as USB drives, lipsticks, or pens, accompanied by appealing flavors like gummy candies or chocolate. Contrary to their appearance, these products pose countless dangers to teenagers.

In the online television program "E-cigarettes - The Sweet Trap and the Harsh Truth Behind the Fragrant Smoke," Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Van Tuan, Director of the Institute of Mental Health at Bach Mai Hospital, stated that the core of e-cigarettes is still introducing nicotine into the body to maintain its addictive nature. Nicotine, upon entering the body, binds to nerve receptors in the brain, stimulating the release of neurotransmitters that create a temporary feeling of euphoria. This process quickly leads to both physical and mental dependence. When not in use, the levels of natural neurotransmitters decrease, causing the body to fall into a state of fatigue, cognitive decline, emotional disturbances, and an inability to cope with stress. Even more dangerous is the inhalation of heated flavoring chemicals into the lungs, which can cause serious damage to the lung tissue and vascular system.

According to WHO statistics, there are currently approximately 24 million teenagers aged 13-15 using e-cigarettes. A study conducted in over 60 countries from 2019 to the present noted that e-cigarette content has attracted 3.4 billion views on social media, with 40% of interacting accounts belonging to people under 25 years old.

Ms. Doan Thu Huyen, from the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (USA), analyzed: Manufacturers have deliberately "positioned" new-generation cigarettes as a fashion accessory associated with a stylish lifestyle; optimizing advertising on digital platforms, using influencers (KOLs) to shape a distorted culture directly targeting the 13-15 age group. Smuggling rings also apply a "binary multi-level marketing" model to lure students: enticing classmates to buy products with rewards such as accessories, gifts, or discounts on e-liquid for future purchases.

Help children say no to "toxic smoke".

Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Van Tuan warns: During adolescence, the brain needs to form and strengthen natural neurotransmitters to stabilize its function in adulthood. Nicotine entering the nervous system during this sensitive period will occupy receptors, hindering and altering the existing natural neurotransmitter pathways. The alteration of these physiological pathways forces the nervous system to establish alternative, distorted networks, causing serious disruption to the development of functional areas in the brain. The consequence is profound damage that is very difficult to fully recover from, even after ceasing e-cigarette use.

Recent in-depth studies have shown that high levels of nicotine dependence are closely linked to increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors. When quitting abruptly, the sharp drop in nicotine levels can lead to sluggish thinking, difficulty concentrating, depression, emptiness, and unwarranted irritability.

To prevent the spread of "toxic smoke," Ms. Doan Thu Huyen advises parents to remain calm when they discover their children are using e-cigarettes; to understand their anxieties and pressures, and to work with teachers and schools to educate them . Adults must set a good example by not smoking in front of children. Schools should build a friendly school psychological counseling system, creating an equal educational environment so that children can improve their resilience and learn how to refuse harmful temptations.

From a social perspective, the core solution is to enforce the ban on the use and circulation of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products in accordance with Resolution No. 173/2024/QH15 of the National Assembly ; establish strong sanctions to prohibit cross-border advertising activities on the internet; strictly standardize labeling; and strengthen the creation of smoke-free public environments.

Text and photos: THU SUONG

Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/canh-bao-do-tuoi-de-bat-dau-su-dung-thuoc-la-dien-tu-a206094.html