Dangers of E-cigarette: A Risk for Youth Today

According to Indonesian media reports on April 17th, e-cigarettes have become a major trend among contemporary youth. This trend is attributed to its variety of flavors and stylish appearance, as well as the misconception that e-cigarettes are safer than traditional tobacco. However, in reality, e-cigarettes are not safe for young people. Behind its enticing smoke lies significant health risks that cannot be ignored.

According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, in 2019, approximately 25% of middle school students and 50% of high school students had tried tobacco products. This increase is undoubtedly related to the popularity of e-cigarettes, as many adolescents and young people mistakenly believe that e-cigarettes are safer than traditional tobacco, and even see them as an effective tool for quitting smoking.

However, tobacco treatment expert Amanda Holm stated that there is no clear evidence to support this view.

She said, "We do not have strong evidence to suggest that e-cigarettes offer substantial assistance in quitting smoking, especially compared to proven counseling and medication therapies." "I am concerned that e-cigarettes may actually prolong or intensify nicotine addiction, and even increase the likelihood of relapse."

Deputy Minister of Health Dante Saksono Harbuwono also emphasized and pointed out that this idea is incorrect, e-cigarettes are as harmful as traditional tobacco. E-cigarettes are just as dangerous as traditional cigarettes. The ingredients in e-cigarettes include nicotine, chemicals, and flavorings, all of which are toxic.

The nicotine content in one e-cigarette pod is equivalent to the nicotine content in a pack of 20 cigarettes. Compared to regular cigarettes, e-cigarettes are harder to quit. While the vapor from e-cigarettes does not contain tar like traditional cigarettes, it can still cause respiratory irritation, inflammation, and disrupt lung function. Exposure to nicotine in e-cigarettes (which also contain nicotine in regular cigarettes) can harm the brain development of adolescents, a process which continues until the age of 25. This can hinder their learning abilities, memory, and attention. Additionally, nicotine can increase the risk of future addiction to other substances (including traditional cigarettes).