GENEVA – The World Health Organization (WHO) has released alarming statistics showing a significant rise in teenage e-cigarette use. According to recent data, WHO estimates at least 15 million teenagers use e-cigarettes worldwide, highlighting growing concerns over youth nicotine addiction and health risks.
Health experts warn that e-cigarettes, often perceived as safer than traditional cigarettes, still contain nicotine and harmful chemicals. These substances can affect brain development in adolescents and increase the risk of long-term addiction. WHO officials emphasize that the rapid increase in use among teenagers is a public health concern that requires urgent attention.
The report notes that marketing strategies, appealing flavors, and social media promotion have contributed to the rise. WHO estimates at least 15 million teenagers use e-cigarettes worldwide, and authorities are concerned that early exposure may lead to regular tobacco use in the future.
Countries across Europe, North America, and Asia are seeing the highest numbers of teenage vapers. Health organizations are calling for stricter regulations on e-cigarette sales, advertising, and packaging targeted at minors. Several governments have already banned flavored e-liquids and increased age verification measures to curb youth access.
WHO experts also highlighted the need for educational campaigns to raise awareness among parents, teachers, and teenagers about the risks associated with vaping. Schools are being encouraged to include anti-vaping lessons in health programs and provide counseling for students already using e-cigarettes.
The organization urged policymakers to implement stronger regulations, citing evidence that countries with strict e-cigarette controls have lower teenage usage rates. WHO estimates at least 15 million teenagers use e-cigarettes worldwide, signaling an urgent call for global action to prevent a potential nicotine epidemic among youth.
In conclusion, the WHO’s findings underline the growing challenge of adolescent e-cigarette use. Public health authorities worldwide are urged to act swiftly to reduce access, raise awareness, and protect teenagers from the harmful effects of nicotine and other chemicals in e-cigarettes.
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