The World Health Organization (WHO) released a report estimating that at least 15 million teenagers worldwide currently use e-cigarettes.
The data draws attention to the rapid rise of vaping among youths across diverse global regions.
The big picture: WHO officials warn that e-cigarettes pose significant health risks, including nicotine addiction and long-term respiratory issues.
- In many countries, regulatory frameworks for e-cigarettes lag behind usage trends, complicating public health responses.
- The report urges governments to implement stricter advertising restrictions targeting youth and enhance educational campaigns.
Go deeper: E-cigarettes’ appeal among teenagers stems from flavor options, social trends, and misconceptions about safety compared to traditional cigarettes.
- The WHO stresses the importance of integrating vaping concerns into broader tobacco control strategies.
- Health advocates call for expanded research on e-cigarettes’ long-term health effects, particularly in adolescent populations.
- WHO recommendations include age restrictions, higher taxes on vaping products and cessation support for adolescent users.
