KARACHI:
Nicotine-free vapes have become popular among teenagers as a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes. This myth is based on the assumption that most cigarette harm comes from a burning plant. However, research on practice safety revealed that vaping or the act of vaporising a liquid to inhale comes with risks.
The liquid used in most vapes or electronic cigarettes is made of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavours, and other chemicals. Both glycerin and glycol can irritate the upper airways, leading to persistent coughing. The battery-powered gadgets feature a glowing tip and a heating element that turns liquid and flavours into a cloud of vapour that users inhale. One study suggests that e-cigarette liquids sweetened with spices like vanilla and cinnamon may harm the lungs even when they do not have nicotine. Other research shows that the heating and vaporisation of e-liquid chemicals make them highly toxic to lung cells. Heating these chemicals can also trigger the release of carcinogens.
Nicotine-free vape devices look cool and high-tech. This is why many teens use them so that they appear trendy in front of their friends and to be socially accepted. They ignore the possibility that these nicotine-free vapes may have painful or dangerous side effects. Given that this is a new device, it will take some time to determine its effects. However, the relevant authorities must raise awareness of the health impacts of such devices to discourage teenagers from using them.
Tooba Eman
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, December 29th, 2022.
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