New Zealand Medical College Concerned About Rising E-cigarette Use among Youth

Sep.05.2022
New Zealand Medical College Concerned About Rising E-cigarette Use among Youth
New Zealand doctors worry about the rapid increase in youth vaping, citing potential health risks including asthma and lung damage.

The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners has expressed concerns over the rapid increase in the number of rangatahi (young people) vaping electronic cigarettes. Image source: Getty Images.


The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners is concerned about the rapid increase in the use of electronic cigarettes.


Medical director Bryan Betty informed the special committee studying the Smoke-free Environments Amendment Act that the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners supports the use of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool, although its complete medical effects may take several decades to be known.


He stated that there is a growing trend among teenagers to extensively use electronic cigarettes and there is emerging evidence suggesting that electronic cigarettes may increase the incidence of asthma and lung injury.


Two years ago, around 25% of electronic cigarettes sold contained nicotine, but now that proportion has risen to 80%.


Dr. Betty stated that nicotine is highly addictive and difficult to quit once addicted. Additionally, it is known to increase blood pressure and anxiety. These are concerns for young people, as it can interfere with their brain development.


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