The rise of e-cigarettes, often called vapes, has introduced a significant public health challenge, particularly among young people in Thailand. These devices are frequently marketed with appealing flavours and sleek designs, which can be very attractive to adolescents. This has led to a noticeable increase in vaping among the youth, creating concerns for parents, educators, and health professionals across the nation.
Many people hold the mistaken belief that e-cigarettes are a harmless alternative to traditional tobacco. However, the vapour inhaled from these devices contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance, along with other potentially harmful chemicals. The easy availability of these products through various channels, including the Online e-cigarette (known as บุหรี่ไฟฟ้าออนไลน์ in Thai) market, has made it simpler for young individuals to obtain them. This accessibility contributes to the growing problem of early nicotine addiction and exposes a new generation to serious health risks.
The impact of nicotine on the developing adolescent brain is a primary concern. The brain continues to develop until the age of 25, and exposure to nicotine during this period can disrupt the formation of circuits that control attention and learning. It can also increase the risk of mood disorders and create a lasting dependency. The social acceptance of vaping in some youth circles in Thailand further normalises a habit with long-term consequences that are not yet fully understood.
The health implications extend beyond the brain. The aerosol from e-cigarettes contains fine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs. These particles can cause inflammation and damage to lung tissue. While often promoted as a safer option, the reality is that inhaling any foreign substance carries risk. The sweet flavours that attract young users can also mask the harshness of the vapour, encouraging deeper and more frequent inhalation, which could lead to respiratory problems.
Furthermore, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that young people who use e-cigarettes are more likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes later on. This “gateway effect” threatens to reverse decades of progress in reducing tobacco use among the Thai population. The act of vaping can make the transition to smoking feel less foreign, creating a pathway to a habit with well-documented deadly effects.
Addressing this issue requires a community-wide effort. It starts with open conversations between parents and their children about the real dangers of vaping. Schools have a role to play in providing accurate information and fostering environments that discourage substance use. Public health campaigns must continue to educate people about the risks associated with e-cigarettes, countering the misinformation that portrays them as benign. Protecting the health of Thailand’s youth means recognising the threat that vaping poses and taking decisive action to prevent its spread.
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