‘Vaping big issue at secondary schools nationwide’

Anti-Drugs, Narcotics Campaign Consultant Syed Zulfiqar Hussain has expressed concerns over the detrimental impact of electronic nicotine delivery systems, such as e-cigarettes or vape pens, on the health of youngsters.

Emphasising the crucial role of parents in assisting children, he highlighted that every year, approximately 7 million people die at an early age due to smoking-related issues.

Hussain explained that many harmful chemicals, including nicotine, were being used in the composition of this harmful e-cigarette which was toxic to humans and could cause health issues. “Vaping is a very big issue, and it is a problem at secondary schools nationwide.”

He stressed that the students should protect themselves and contribute to saving their surroundings from the curse of drugs. Parents and teachers should collaborate in preventing youth from falling victim to drugs, he said, adding that the younger generation is not paying heed to anti-smoking and anti-drug campaigns.

The expert said children with a nicotine dependency may have difficulties concentrating in class, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, irritability, restlessness, frustration, anger and strong cravings to relieve symptoms with repeat nicotine exposure. “Academics and policymakers must gather data and should conduct research to show a causal relationship between e-cigarette experimentation by the youth and later tobacco addiction in the context of Pakistan,” he demanded.

“There is not much awareness of teachers and parents where we need for a massive campaign against e-cigarettes like the campaign against sheesha and vape pen use. We have decided to involve the civil society to raise awareness,” he added.

Replying to a question, he said chemicals in vaping fluid also can cause acute lung injuries and contribute to lung and cardiovascular disease down the line. He said more rigorous anti-tobacco campaigns focused on tobacco cigarettes and the rising trend of e-cigarettes among youth should be launched to create awareness about the harmful effects of smoking.