New-age gateway devices are causing a public health crisis

Source: The post New-age gateway devices are causing a public health crisis has been created, based on the article “New-age gateway devices, the latest health threat” published in “The Hindu” on 26th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health

Context: The article discusses how devices like e-cigarettes and vapes, once marketed as safer alternatives to smoking, are now causing a public health crisis. They are particularly harmful to children, leading to addiction, physical harm, and mental health issues.

For detailed information on Electronic Cigarettes Act,2019 read this article here

What are the new-age gateway devices?

1. New-age gateway devices like e-cigarettes, vaping pens, and heated tobacco products (HTPs) were marketed as healthier alternatives to smoking.
2. However, they have instead caused a public health crisis. These devices are harming both the physical and mental health of children, making the problem worse.

What are the Impacts of such devices?

1. Increased Youth Addiction: A survey published by JAMA Network Open in November 2022 found that adolescent e-cigarette users are highly addicted, often using their first tobacco product within five minutes of waking. E-cigarettes deliver nicotine more efficiently than traditional cigarettes, increasing addiction.
2. Targeted Marketing: Manufacturers target children with flavors like strawberry and cotton candy. These flavors, combined with appealing ads, make vaping attractive to young users. Children, especially those aged 10 to 20, are vulnerable due to peer pressure and the desire to fit in.
3. Psychological Harm: Vaping is linked to loneliness, depression, anxiety, and suicidal behaviors among adolescents. The Australian Institute of Family Studies reports that these devices contribute to significant mental health challenges in young users.
4. Physical Health Risks: Users face physical health risks, including lung damage and conditions like EVALI. The use of benzoic acid in newer e-cigarettes enhances nicotine delivery, increasing addiction and potential health consequences.
5. Gateway to Harder Substances: Vaping is often mistakenly perceived as harmless. However, it can lead to experimenting with more dangerous substances like cannabis, cocaine, and heroin, raising long-term substance abuse concerns.

Question for practice:

Examine how new-age gateway devices like e-cigarettes and vaping pens have contributed to increased youth addiction and mental health issues.