The alarming increase in the number of children hospitalized in connection with vaping raises serious concerns.
Tl;dr
- Vaping-related child hospitalizations at record high.
- Vaping companies are targeting young people with festive offers.
- The number of patients hospitalized due to vaping is increasing.
Explosion in child hospitalizations linked to vaping
Never before have we recorded so many underage hospitalizations due to vaping, according to NHS records. This year, between April and October, 31 minors were admitted to English hospitals for vaping-related problems, an alarming figure.
Vaping companies target young people
With the arrival of the festive period, vaping companies are stepping up their offerings and offering flavors such as Christmas pudding, candy cane, fruit tarts or gingerbread to attract young people. Despite the ban on selling nicotine vaping products to under-18s, sales are exploding. Purchasing these products is possible with little or no controls.
A growing number of patients hospitalized due to vaping
According to the NHS, 280 patients of all ages have been hospitalized this year because of vaping. The previous year, this figure stood at 317. In 2022, 431 people were admitted, a record in recent years. However, the trend in vaping is on the rise, particularly among young people, with the number of patients admitted due to illness increasing from 11 in 2020 to 51 last year.
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The dangers of vaping for young people
Vaping, used by adults as a way to quit smoking, is not suitable for children and young people. As their lungs and brains are developing, they are more sensitive to its effects. According to the NHS, young people should know that:
- Vaping is a way for adults to quit smoking. It is not intended for non-smokers, especially children and young people.
- While vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking, it is not without risks.
- Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is addictive.
- Young people are more susceptible to its side effects compared to adults because the developing brain is more sensitive to its addictive effects.
- It is illegal in the UK for nicotine vaping products to be sold to under 18s or for adults to purchase on their behalf.
- Many disposable vapes on sale are illegal because they do not meet UK safety regulations. These vapes may contain high levels of harmful substances.
It is crucial to remain vigilant and informed about these risks.
Health
