Oh right, because cigarettes, drugs and alcohol weren't enough of a problem
Hey I’ve got an idea. Why doesn’t somebody invent another thing to worry about for those of us raising kids? Oh yeah, they have. It’s called vaping.
Look I guess it’s the same as alcohol, drugs or anything else undesirable we want to keep our kids away from. Maybe because it wasn’t around when we were younger and we don’t have enough information about it that makes it all the more worrying. It seems to have been passed off as a ‘healthy’ alternative to cigarettes, but slightly less shit, doesn’t mean ‘healthy’.
What Is It?
Vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, has become increasingly popular among teenagers in recent years. While some may believe that vaping is a safe alternative to smoking, there are significant dangers associated with vaping that can have serious consequences for young people.
It is important to note that vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking. Although e-cigarettes do not contain the same harmful chemicals as traditional cigarettes, they still contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and can have serious health consequences. Nicotine has been shown to have negative effects on brain development in young people, particularly in the areas of memory, attention, and learning. This can have long-term effects on academic performance and future success.
Mmmm Healthy Just like Anthrax
Vaping has been linked to a number of health problems. In recent years, there have been reports of vaping-related lung injuries and deaths, particularly among young people. These illnesses, known as EVALI (e-cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury), are believed to be caused by the inhalation of toxic substances found in some vaping products. These substances can cause severe lung damage and even death.
I Can Give Up Anytime, Honest
In addition to the health risks associated with vaping, there is also a significant risk of addiction. Many young people who start vaping do so because they believe it is a safe alternative to smoking, but they quickly become addicted to nicotine. This addiction can be difficult to break and can have serious consequences for the individual’s health and well-being.
There is evidence that vaping can have negative social and emotional consequences for teenagers. Young people who vape may be more likely to engage in risky behaviours, such as drinking and drug use, and may be more likely to experience depression and anxiety.
Ooooh Looks Like Lollies
The thing that really annoys me about the whole vaping thing is that it seems like it’s actively trying to attract teenagers and children.
The marketing of vaping products plays a role in the dangers of vaping for teenagers. Vaping companies often use attractive packaging and flavours to appeal to young people, which can make it more difficult for them to resist the temptation to try vaping.
I mean seriously, have a look at buying them online. Flavours like strawberry, vanilla, blueberry and mint makes it sound more like a healthy juice bar. They’re marketed as a way to be cool and fit in with peers, which can increase the social pressure to vape. Traditional cigarettes done away with this form of marketing a long time ago.
What’s Being Done About It?
In response to these dangers, many schools and communities are implementing policies to discourage vaping among teenagers. Some schools have banned the use of e-cigarettes on campus, while others have implemented education programs to help young people understand the risks associated with vaping. The government too seems to be rallying to put new vaping laws in place.
Parents and caregivers also have an important role to play in preventing and learning about kids and vaping. It is important to have open and honest conversations with young people about the dangers of vaping and to encourage them to make healthy choices. Parents and caregivers can also model healthy behaviours by avoiding smoking and vaping themselves.
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