Educating teens on dangers of smoking and vaping crucial for overall well-being

The surge in smoking and vaping among teenagers is a growing concern, with many teenagers considering these habits as trendy or harmless and are not afraid to try them out. Parents, it is the need of the hour for you to educate yourself and initiate open communication with children about the dangers associated with tobacco products. Make sure the child avoids smoking and vaping, safeguards his/her respiratory health, and improves his/her quality of life.

Dr Shahid Patel, consultant pulmonologist, Medicover Hospitals, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, says, “Smoking and vaping are not only common among adults but even teenagers.  “Several factors contribute to the uptick in teen smoking and vaping. “The sleek design of vaping devices, availability of alluring flavors, and unique marketing strategies make these products appealing to the younger population aged 13-19. Likewise, peer pressure, that is the desire to fit in or appear mature, can pressurize the teens to experiment with tobacco products. Social media platforms further exacerbate this by normalizing and glamorizing smoking and vaping in teenagers. Many teenagers are using electronic cigarettes, cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and hookah. Not only in urban areas, but smoking and vaping among teenagers has increased in rural areas too.”

Dr Shahid added,“ Educating teenagers aged 13-19 about the risks linked to smoking and vaping is vital. Nicotine exposure during adolescence can disrupt brain development, affecting areas responsible for attention, learning, and impulse control. Smoking harms teens` lung development, leading to reduced lung function and increased risk of asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It has also given rise to a new disease entity called as VALI, Vape Associated Lung Injury, which as of now has no cure and has been fatal in many cases. It also impacts brain development, impairing memory, concentration, and increasing addiction risk. Early education will help teens to make informed decisions and resist peer pressure.”

“Parents must educate themselves about tobacco, nicotine, and the alternatives being used by teens today. Though smoking can give them temporary satisfaction, it can take a toll on their respiratory health. Smoking and vaping both expose the lungs to harmful chemicals that damage the delicate tissues and airways. Over time, this irritation leads to chronic inflammation, reduced lung capacity, and increased susceptibility to infections. Many of the substances inhaled during smoking and vaping, such as formaldehyde and benzene, are carcinogens and cause lung cancer. Communicating openly with the teen can help them understand the impact of smoking and vaping. Can we include that most of the damage done by smoking and vaping is permanent. Parents should encourage teens to quit smoking and pay attention to lung health,” concluded Dr. Supriya Bambarkar, consultant oncosurgeon, AIMS hospital in Dombivli. 

“Parents, help the child to quit these vices by opting for smoking cessation therapy, take the help of a support group or counseling, if required. Teens need to understand that smoking and vaping can lead to serious addiction and long-term health problems. Seek guidance from trusted adults and make informed choices that support your well-being and future. Quitting these vices can be helpful for teens,” Dr Shahid further explains. 

Nicotine in tobacco and e-cigarettes can influence hormone production, reduce sperm count and quality in men, and disrupt menses and ovulation in women. Over time, this can hurt their fertility. Teen years are for growth and hormonal balance, and introducing toxins at this stage can hurt one’s fertility. Addiction to these vices during teens can impact fertility in later life, making early education and prevention important. Hence, encouraging teenagers aged 13-19 to exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, manage stress through yoga and meditation, and have open conversations about peer pressure can help prevent early addiction. For those trying to quit these vices, smoking cessation therapy, nicotine replacement therapy under medical supervision, and knowing triggers like stress or social media influence can be a good idea. Note down the triggers and work with the expert to manage them.  Remember, quitting smoking and vaping will not only improve well-being but also preserve fertility,” concluded Dr. Rita Modi, senior IVF consultant, Motherhood Fertility & IVF in Kharghar concluded.

This article first appeared on Mid Day