Vaping<br />E-cigarette use, or vaping, has become popular among teens in recent years due to the misconception that it is a “safer” alternative to traditional smoking. However, vaping is not safe, especially for teens, and has negative effects on physical and mental health.<br /><br />Negative effects on physical and mental health:<br /><br />1. Physical health:<br />- Lung damage: E-cigarettes contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, which can cause lung inflammation and damage to lung tissue.<br />- Increased risk of respiratory diseases: E-cigarettes are associated with problems such as chronic coughing and shortness of breath, and in some cases, can lead to a condition called (Evaping-associated lung injury (EVALI).<br />- Effect on the heart: The nicotine in e-cigarettes raises blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the risk of heart disease.<br />- Exposure to toxic substances: E-cigarettes contain heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, which can accumulate in the body and cause organ damage.<br />2. Mental health:<br />Addiction<br />- Increased anxiety and depression<br />- Effect on concentration and memory<br />3. Social effects:<br />- Social pressure<br />- Financial costs<br />4. Long-term effects:<br />- Increased risk of traditional smoking:<br />Teenagers who use e-cigarettes are more likely to switch to traditional smoking in the future.<br />- Effect on development: Nicotine can disrupt normal brain development, especially in adolescence when the brain is in a stage of rapid development.<br />- Chronic health problems:<br />Long-term use of e-cigarettes can lead to chronic diseases such as lung and heart disease.<br />5. Other risks<br />- Device explosions There are cases of devices exploding Electronic cigarettes, causing serious injuries.<br />- Exposure to liquid nicotine Accidentally swallowing liquid nicotine can be toxic and may lead to poisoning or death.<br /><br />Prevention tips<br />- Awareness: Educate teens about the dangers of electronic smoking and its health damages.<br />- Peer monitoring: Encourage teens to avoid social pressure to try electronic cigarettes.<br />- Providing support: If a teen is addicted to electronic cigarettes, psychological support and medical assistance should be provided to help them quit.<br /><br />E-cigarettes are not a safe alternative to traditional smoking, but rather a new threat to the health of teens. It is important to take preventive steps to ensure a healthy life and a better future for them.<br /><br />M.M.: Nour Fadel<br />al Mustaqbal University the first university in iraq