Additionally, the use of e-cigarettes has been associated with an increased risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as potential long-term impacts on lung function.
Given the concerning findings of this study, experts are calling for urgent action to address the growing issue of vaping among young people in South Africa. The implementation of the Tobacco Products & Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill is seen as a crucial step in regulating the industry and protecting the youth from harmful marketing tactics.
Educational campaigns and interventions aimed at preventing and reducing vaping among adolescents are also being recommended to raise awareness about the risks associated with these products.
It is clear that the vaping epidemic is a pressing public health concern that requires immediate attention and action to safeguard the well-being of the younger generation. By addressing the regulatory gaps, enforcing age restrictions, and increasing awareness about the dangers of vaping, steps can be taken to combat this growing problem and protect the health of our youth.
As more research is conducted and awareness is raised, it is hoped that measures will be taken to curb the rising rates of vaping addiction among adolescents and prevent further harm to this vulnerable population.
It is essential for policymakers, healthcare professionals, educators, and parents to work together to address this urgent public health issue and protect the youth from the dangers of vaping.
The harmful effects of vaping on adolescents have been widely documented, with research highlighting the serious physical and mental health consequences of this growing trend. Not only can vaping lead to impaired cognitive function in later life, but it can also result in behavioural problems, depression, and panic disorders.
A recent review by Loren Wold and colleagues has shed light on the cardiopulmonary consequences of vaping in adolescents, outlining the impact on developing lungs and hearts. Some of the documented effects include increased wheezing, bronchiectasis, heightened risk of infection, and changes in vascular and endothelial function. Dr. Van Zyl-Smit emphasized the importance of avoiding exposure to vaping during adolescence, as lung development continues into the early twenties and long-term exposure can have detrimental effects on lung immunity and growth.
Regulation is urgently needed to address the emerging epidemic of vaping among youth. There is a call to ban advertisements targeting young people and enforce age limits to reduce accessibility. Vape products are easily accessible through mobile apps like Checkers Sixty60 and UberEats, making it crucial to implement restrictions on marketing to debunk the myth that vaping is safe and to discourage its glamorization among adolescents.
Despite the urgent need for intervention, there is currently no proven method to help adolescents quit vaping. Dr. Van Zyl-Smit noted the likelihood of high addiction levels, suggesting that medication for nicotine withdrawal symptoms may be necessary, although none are approved for use in individuals under 18.
Professor Catherine Egbe from the South African Medical Research Council expressed concern over the prevalence of vaping among young people, citing a study that found a significant percentage of undergraduates using e-cigarettes on a daily basis. She emphasized the need for government intervention to protect children and future generations from lifelong nicotine addiction.
Sanele Zulu, convenor of the South African Tobacco-Free Youth Forum, echoed these concerns, noting the rise in the use of vapes and other nicotine delivery systems in communities. The Vapour Products Association of South Africa has implemented a code of conduct to prevent the sale of vapes to individuals under 18, but challenges remain with non-member sellers targeting young people through marketing tactics.
As the government works to finalize the Tobacco Bill, which includes regulations on vaping, stakeholders are advocating for a separate focus on vaping regulation to expedite the process. Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale confirmed that the Bill is currently before parliament, signaling progress in addressing the public health crisis posed by the increasing use of vaping among adolescents.
