Vaping and e-cigarettes, a jeopardizing trend on the rise for our young generations? Social attraction to electronic nicotine products influences extensive addictive characteristics. Exposure to the dangers of this new and evolving substance is being revealed.
What are the addictive properties of vaping?
John Hopkins Medicine divulges that the nicotine in vapes and cigarettes embodies an equivalent addictive property to heroin and cocaine. The parallel between nicotine comparative to a drug is an alarming one. What does this mean for Generation Z? One could say that the first are those influenced and reliant on a new form of convenience. Are the dangers more detrimental than the temporary relief, or do the short-term benefits outweigh the potential risks?
“Smoking harms nearly every organ in your body, including your heart. Nearly one-third of deaths from heart disease are the result of smoking and secondhand smoke”.
John Hopkins Medicine
“The Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 2,807 cases of e-cigarette or vaping use-associated long injury and 68 deaths attributed to that condition”.
John Hopkins Medicine
How does Generation Z view this issue?
A view on the use of nicotine provides a moment of stillness, relief, and comfort. The self-soothing qualities assist with daily life challenges. The accessibility of convenience allows easy usage in public avenues. The disruption of distraction due to smell is benign. Discretion is also provided; therefore, it helps to avoid the taboo surrounding smoking.
Is the harm really worth the temporary relief?
Research states that vaping and e-cigarettes are less harmful than cigarettes themselves. However, there is still a danger to physical health. Long term, the facts prove that this is indeed a harmful vice. The issue lies in attempting to quit. The original marketing strategy of vaping products was to influence a decline in the urge to smoke. However, a more convenient addiction is born. Young generations are being targeted by the attraction of flavored vapes. Instilling an early-on addiction makes it even more difficult to quit.
“Research from the John Hopkins University on vape ingredients published in October 2021 reveals thousands of chemical ingredients in vape products, most of which are not yet identified”.
John Hopkins Medicine
Considering that vaping and e-cigarettes are a new and evolving vice, long-term consequences are unknown. Gen Z, an original target audience for convenient nicotine, will be the first to endure the results. Allowing foreign chemicals to inhabit the body could cause deadly consequences.
The reality of not wanting to quit is present. Searching for motivation to steer clear of a social influence. Avoiding this pressure isn’t necessarily an easy one. The concern arises that continual users of electronic nicotine could be exposed to diluted products.
“Avoid using informal sources, such as friends, family, family, or online dealers to obtain a vaping device”.
John Hopkins Medicine
The reality that society is pushing these vices is prevalent. Complete avoidance among all people, especially young generations, is unrealistic. A lack of motivation to quit smoking exists. Proceeding with caution about what and where the products are purchased.
How to quit Vaping
Quitting vaping and e-cigarettes is a difficult process. Luckily, resources exist. Nicotine patches, gum, and even medications provide ease for cravings. Staying busy, and eating candy or lollipops also assist as a good distraction. Identifying what works for you will begin a healthier state of mind and body.
