Although traditional smoking in Argentina has decreased in recent years, the sustained growth of the use of electronic cigarettes between adolescents and young adults concerns. A new trend that implies health risks and generates concern.
Since 2011, the import and marketing of electronic cigarettes, also known as vapers, is prohibited in the country. However, recently there has been an increase in consumption in adolescents and young adults. According to population surveys, more than 7% of young people consume themin a scenario where the perception of less damage lives with the lack of information.
“Although we still cannot affirm if the vapeo is more or less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, we do know that it is not safe,” said Dr. Guillermo Espinosa, Family doctor and author of the book Tabaquismo published by the Editorial of the University and Italian Hospital. “The vopemers contain nicotine, the same addictive substance of tobacco, in addition to chemical compounds that can seriously damage the respiratory system, even in people who are only exposed to second -hand vapor,” he said.
The popularity of these products among the youngest is not accidental. According to the coordinator of the Italian hospital tobacco control programin the attempt to attract a new generation of consumers, access to advertising through social networks and influencers, the attractive design of devices, attractive flavors and the false sense of safety make them a dangerous gateway to smoking.
“Many believe that vopemers help quit smoking, but there is not enough evidence to support this theory. In addition, this false perception can encourage its use and be the beginning of nicotine consumers who after a while initiate the consumption of tobacco, for costs and accessibility,” said Espinosa.
The specialist said that smoking from an early age can generate immediate symptoms in health, such as pain or burning in the throat and lungs. If the habit is maintained over time it can evolve in more serious complications such as heart or brain diseases, damage to the lungs and even different types of cancer such as throat, stomach, bladder, mouth, etc. Nicotine consumption can also affect sexual, mouth, ocular, bone and dermatological health, in addition to increasing the risk of respiratory viral infections.
The expert recommends starting by reducing consumption and building new habits that replace the act of smoking. It also highlights the importance of celebrating each achievement, relying on family and friends, and resorting to medications such as bupropion or nicotine therapies, such as patches or gum, always under medical control. Stop smoking can radically change health levels, although at first it is not easy, it is never too late to start.
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