Attention, parents: District office warns of dangerous e-vapes for young people!

Attention, parents: District office warns of dangerous e-vapes for young people!

In recent months, the topic of e-vapes has become increasingly explosive in Bavaria, especially among young people. The Unterallgäu district office is sounding the alarm and warning of the dangers posed by these colorful, pen-like disposable cigarettes. The use of e-vapes, which are available in fruity flavors such as apple, watermelon or chewing gum, is not only harmful to health, but also has a high addictive potential. According to reports from Mercury Many young people suffer from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases that can be traced back to the consumption of e-vapes.

What are the numbers? According to estimates, around 34.1 percent of 14 to 24 year olds in Germany already use e-cigarettes. Within a year, sales of disposable vapes with nicotine-containing liquids have increased rapidly and are now around five million devices sold per month. In comparison, sales of conventional cigarettes have fallen significantly. This development could also be related to advertising by social media influencers who portray vapes as “cool” and harmless, according to the report ZDF.

The risks for young people

But the dangers are real and often start with the very little ones. Even elementary school children now come into contact with these products. The regulation that vapes can only be sold to adults fails in many corners - young people often gain access through older siblings or illegal sales outlets. Almost 25 percent of young people in fifth to tenth grade have already tried e-cigarettes Health insurance center reported.

The health risks should not be underestimated. Nicotine can cause addiction and seriously impair brain development in adolescents. Even nicotine-free versions are not harmless; they can release substances that are associated with long-term health consequences. The everyday use of e-vapes can lead to permanent damage to the cardiovascular system.

Environmental problem

In addition, the topic of environmental pollution comes into the conversation. The mass use of disposable e-cigarettes is leading to an enormous plastic and electronic waste problem. The improper disposal of the devices not only has ecological consequences, but also safety-related consequences: incorrectly disposed of vapes cause around 30 fires in German waste and recycling plants every day. The Environmental impact is getting bigger every day and urgently requires solutions.

Although there is already a Federal Council initiative calling for a ban on the sale of disposable e-cigarettes at EU level, experts see a need for action. The district youth worker Aylin Baumgartner calls on parents and schools to proactively inform about the risks. An open conversation about the dangers of nicotine addiction and health damage is urgently needed. The responsibility to inform their children about the risks lies in the hands of parents, who should act as role models and regularly discuss the topic with their children.

In summary, youth vaping is a complex and pressing problem. The combination of health risks, environmental concerns and the pervasive advertising portraying these products as safe creates an alarming situation that requires more attention and preventive measures.