Vapes and cigarettes: Dangerous trends among young people expose!

Vapes and cigarettes: Dangerous trends among young people expose!

Deutschland - On May 31, 2025, the World Smoking Day takes place under the motto "expose the attraction". This initiative aims to critically examine the advertising strategies of the tobacco industry and to draw attention to the considerable health risks of cigarettes and nicotine products. The Federal Institute for Public Health (BIÖG) has prepared comprehensive information and offers of help on the subject of smoking stops to combat the constantly increasing consumption of disposable vapes, e-cigarettes and tobacco heaters.

The popularity of one-way vapes under the youth shows alarming tendencies. According to the 2023 drug affinity study, 7% of 12 to 17 year olds and 12% of 18 to 25 year olds have consumed one-way cigarettes within the last 30 days. This is not least due to the colorful packaging and sweet flavors that are used by manufacturers to make their products more attractive. “Watermelon”, “Cheesecake” and “Strawberry Ice Cream” are just a few of the flavors that offer these products.

health risks and dependency

dr. Johannes Nießen urgently warns of the health risks and the high dependency potential of disposable vapes. Even nicotine -free variants are not harmless because they can release cancer -generating substances. Vapes contain nicotine -containing liquids that are evaporated by a heating element, according to estimates, up to 15 mg nicotine can be absorbed per day. In view of the fact that many young people do not find the steam as risky, the situation is worrying.

In addition, studies show that about 50% of the daily smoking people die before the age of 70. Smoking causes a variety of health problems, including chronic diseases such as lung cancer and cardiovascular diseases. It is the greatest risk factor for premature death and can lead to the development of dementia and Alzheimer's. Women who smoke during pregnancy endanger their unborn child's health.

ecological and social effects

disposable products such as vapes are not only a health, but also an ecological problem. Incorrectly disposed of vapes caused around 30 fires in garbage and recycling systems in Germany every year. The high number of disposable E-cigarettes sold-estimated around five million per month-contributes to the development of electronic waste because they consist of plastic, aluminum and lithium-ion batteries. In response to this, Bavaria has decided on a Federal Council Initiative that demands a ban on sales for disposable E-cigarettes at EU level.

To support smokers who want to stop, the BIÖG offers a variety of help offers: an online exit program including forum, a smoke-free chat and telephone consultations. In addition, information can be ordered free of charge, and tips for the smoke stop are provided via Instagram.

The increasing number of young consumers of e-cigarettes requires preventive measures. Critics therefore call for bans on sales, advertising bans and price increases for nicotine products. Regular reconnaissance talks with young people about the risks of smoking and vaping are strongly recommended. The challenges in the fight against smoking and its successors are diverse and require coordinated efforts by all social actors.

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