ISLAMABAD: The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed its dismay over an escalating trend of e-cigarettes among the youth and has issued a warning.
In an effort to reverse the trend, WHO outlined the rapid spread of e-cigarette use mainly among the adolescent group of 13-15 years.
The organization labeled the new trend of nicotine intake via e-cigarettes among teens as “a new nicotine epidemic,” additionally warning that youngsters get addicted to nicotine via e-cigarettes, which in the end, leads to tobacco smoking.
The aerosol from an e-cigarette may contain a few toxic compounds that can damage the lungs, heart, and even the brain, the WHO says. “Most of all, these organs are in the process of developmental growth in adolescents.” It further added that e-cigarettes are mostly promoted to young people, as attractive flavors, colorful packaging, and social media marketing.
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WHO has the following provisions of legislation in this regard:
Establish and maintain strict age limits for the purchase of e-cigarettes, along with strict verification of age.
Prohibit or limit the use of flavors, the colorful packaging, the face that the child is your advert, and other promotive ways that children use.
Pay a good amount of money for an e-cigarette pack to create difficulties for younger buyers.
Tell the truth about e-cigarette products to the children, parents, and teachers.
